Osprey Observer Valrico February 2020 by Osprey Observer

Valrico

29 C E L E B R A T I N G

February 2020 Volume 17, Issue 2 Ph: 657-2418 1 8

Y E A R S

O F

P U B L I S H I N G

2020 Strawberry Festival Offers ‘Perfect Vision’ Of Family Entertainment

tion for many, but if you want to enjoy other creative Plant City strawberry creations, try some Strawberry Fudge, Strawberry Fritters, Strawberry Kettle Korn, Strawberry Cobbler, Strawberry Sandwiches and, if you must watch your weight, the Bowl of Berries offers a sugarfree version. Lots of other strawberry items and other fair foods are also available for you to feast on and test your imagination. The Strawberry Youth Parade will take place on Saturday, February 28 and the 2020 Grand Parade will be on Monday, March 1. Along with the floats and bands and lots of good old fashioned fun, you can meet the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen, Meghan White, along with First Maid Kennedy Sapp and court members Denim Hughes, Lacie Collins and Emma Miller. Meghan is the daughter of Stacy and Barbie White and is an 18-year-old senior at Durant High School. You will also see them at festival events throughout the grounds, including the Wish Farms Soundstage before each of the Headline Entertainment shows. “Once again, we have an outstandContinued on Page 6

N E W S

By Kathy L. Collins

100 Day “We have Dream Home, had so much fun a new HGTV making the series, feaseries. We hope tures not only that the audience local residents has as much fun Brian and watching it,” said Mika Brian. “It was a Kleinschmidt, ton of hard work, but the Tampa Bay area as well. The Local residents Mika and Brian series pilot Kleinschmidt are excited that aired in April HGTV has picked up their 2019. HGTV series, 100 Day Dream Home. The series will premiere on has now picked it up for Sunday, February 16 and will air at 10 p.m. a series, which will premiere on Sunday, February but every day we made sure we were 16 at 10 p.m. This is a dream come true enjoying every step of the process. The for the Kleinschmidts. “We received the Tampa Bay has always supported every long-anticipated call from HGTV about crazy dream we have gone after, and this the show being picked up while we were is no different,” added Brian. driving. We both screamed,” said Brian. The show, in addition to featuring “Everything we had worked/prayed for so Tampa Bay, supports and highlights local hard was finally paying off and coming businesses. Brian said, “We are highlighttrue. We are beyond blessed and excited ing all of the talented builders, subconfor this new chapter in our lives,” added tractors, artists and designers in each and Brian. 100 Day Dream Home will run for every episode. We are so excited to show nine weeks. It will feature nine homes the world how much talent Tampa Bay located throughout the area, including truly has to offer.” Ruskin, Apollo Beach, Riverview, Plant HGTV is a top-10 network and has City, downtown Tampa and St. more than 37 million viewers each month. Petersburg. Brian said, “We cannot wait to show off our beautiful area and all that it has to offer.” The Kleinschmidts are custom home designers. The husband and wife team work with clients to create their perfect home by taking them on tours of various properties. They select their dream exterior, interior, furnishings and finishes. They See ad on page 27 create, build and complete a personalized home for each family in 100 days. CAR CARE FOR TEENS ........................PG 3 Potential home buyers for the show SPANO VISITS BAY LIFE ....................PG 11 are selected through a casting process through the Kleinschmidts’ production THE BIGGEST LOSER.........................PG 14 company as well as HGTV. Brian HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL ...........PG 15 explained, “Those who are selected are real clients who are actually buying, EYE ON BUSINESS .....................PGS 25‐26 designing, building and moving into their CHALKLINES .....................................PG 30 dream home.”

w N ne ew rs hi O

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The TV Series 100 Day Dream Home Is A Dream Come True For Brian And Mika Kleinschmidt

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Don’t miss this year’s 2020 Strawberry Festival. With the promise of ‘Perfect Vision,’ everyone in attendance will see plenty of familyfriendly entertainment, including fair food delights, concerts, rides, stage shows, animal shows, attractions and exhibits. The festival will take place for 11 days starting on Thursday, February 27 and will run through Sunday, March 8. This 85th season continues to show the fabric of American life woven into the festival through its social events, contests, youth programs, top-name entertainment and parades with glorious floats and marching bands. Gates open at 10 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. daily. Midway times vary. General admission is $10 for ages 13 and up. Children 5 and under are admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Children 6 to 12 require a youth ticket purchase of $5. Discount tickets are available at Publix now through March 8. More than 2,500 local volunteers help annually, as 500,000 plus visitors attend the Strawberry Festival. Many won’t leave until they’ve enjoyed its signature strawberry shortcake. It’s a tradi-

By Michelle Colesanti

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The Village Players will present Neil Simon’s classic Barefoot in the Park in February. The Village Players perform their shows at the historic James McCabe Theater, located at 506 N. 5th St. in Valrico.You can get tickets by visiting www.thevillageplayersvalrico.com. For more information, please call 480-3147. See article on page 32 in the Arts & Entertainment feature.

Page 2

Volume 17, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

Law Office of

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February 2020

Page 3

Valrico Edition

A Fighter’s Chance Hosts Its First Annual Mother And Son Dance

By Libby Hopkins

Poet Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “Men are what their mothers made them.” Justin Mitchell of Brandon could relate to Emerson’s statement because his mother raised him to be a kind and caring man. Mitchell is a local personal trainer Justin Mitchell of A and fitness coach Fighter’s Chance is whose clients have the organizer of A health issues due to Night On the Red Carpet, a Mother anxiety or post-trauand Son Dance that matic stress disorwill be held on ders. March 14 in Brandon. “I find that boxing has helped a lot of my clients with anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorders, which overall improves their health,” Mitchell said. “I also work closely with youths to encourage positive self-image and antibullying. I have two young daughters and work intensely to promote fatherhood and the important role that men play in the family dynamic.” Recently, Mitchell came up with the idea of creating a mother/son dance to help raise money for local nonprofit, A Fighter’s Chance. “As a father, the idea of the mother/son dance came about because I wanted to give mothers the same opportunity to develop a special bond similar to how dads feel at father/daughter dances,” Mitchell said. “I feel that the mother/son dance will highlight the many important roles that mothers play, especially in sin-

gle households if the father is not present. I believe that both men and women play a significant role in raising children, and each should equally be appreciated and valued.” A Night on the Red Carpet Mother and Son Dance will be held on Saturday, March 14 at A Fighter’s Chance in Brandon from 6:3010:30 p.m. Tickets cost $30 per couple and $5 for each additional child. Proceeds from the dance will go to A Fighter’s Chance, which is a local nonprofit that helps with mentoring children, teens and life coaching for men who are primarily fathers. “My hope for the dance is just to create a positive environment for all of my guests so that all the mothers and sons can have fun,” Mitchell said. “I’m really hoping for a good turn out from the community.” If you would like to attend A Night on the Red Carpet Mother and Son Dance, you can visit the event’s Eventbrite link at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/afcs-1stannual-mother-son-dance-tickets87728342835. A Fighter’s Chance is located at 1263 Kingsway Rd. in Brandon. If you would like to learn more about A Fighter’s Chance, you can visit its website at www.afighterschance.com.

AutoWorks & Alafia Driving Team Up To Teach Basic Car Care To Teens

By Brad Stager

Sooner or classrooms are late later, every new model vehicles, driver learns there Cole Dolmseth is more to safely appreciates the operating a car or value of proper truck than simply maintenance and is obeying traffic happy to be laws. One of involved in clinics those things is the that educate his performance of students about it. routine mainte“Our focus is Getting to know what is under the hood is the topic of these car care clinics, sponsored by getting them on the nance that can two local businesses. avoid a traffic road safely and breakdown or accigetting them as much dent. experience as we can, To help teens not the maintenance learn those automotive part, so it certainly helps lessons, Auto Works of to give them a chance to Brandon and Alafia learn that,” he said. Driving Academy are Dolmseth, who also teaming up to offer owns Alafia Driving knowledge about Academy, entrusts the maintaining a vehicle care of his vehicle fleet to by hosting car care Auto Works of Brandon clinics that cover and credits Owner basics such as checkMichael Rubio with coming fluid levels and ing up with the idea to maintaining proper air pressure in tires. hold the clinics. According to Rubio, When the first clinic, scheduled for teaching about cars is a way to help othSaturday, February 29 at Auto Works of ers. Brandon, was announced on social “As businesses, we want to create media, the response was enthusiastic opportunities to share knowledge that can and the event’s capacity was filled within help young people avoid accidents,” he hours. A second clinic is scheduled for said. Saturday, April 25. Waitlists have formed The car care clinics are held at Auto for both events, which run from 9 a.m.-12 Works of Brandon on 211 N. Kings Ave. Noon. Organizers said more clinics Contact the organizers about the waitlist beyond the two may be scheduled in the and learn about future clinics by visiting future. Auto Works of Brandon or Alafia Driving As a certified driving instructor whose Academy Facebook pages.

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Page 4

Valrico Edition

Volume 17, Issue 2

Hillsborough County’s Alafia River Watershed Master Plan Getting An Update

Laura’s Organic Elderberry And Gummies Are A Natural Way To Improve Health

Keeping roads ‘conceptual’ solupassable in times tions, subject to of major storms modification due to and mitigating changing conditions other flooding such as continued problems in the development of the Brandon area are affected areas. issues addressed The primary by Hillsborough goal of the projCounty’s Alafia ects is to ensure River Watershed roads remain Residents had a chance to view Master Plan. Last passable in severe possible flood mitigation solutions at a recent event to inform the public about month, the county weather, especially updates to the Alafia River Watershed Plan. held a meeting to routes that are let the public know the ways in which the needed by emergency vehicles or for plan is being updated. evacuation. The Greater Brandon area lies within The plans were made available for the watershed’s basin that spans 418 public viewing at a public meeting last square miles, roughly from Bartow in Polk month that was held at the Bloomingdale County, west to Tampa Bay and south library. According to Project Manager from Plant City to SR 674. Michaud Burgos, the projects require The update identifies seven locations approval and funding by the Hillsborough for projects to mitigate flooding: Van Gogh County Board of Commissioners. Cir./El Greco Dr., the Four Winds Estate “These types of projects end up subdivision, Buckhorn Creek from Brook being added to our future projects list,” he Crossing Dr. to Culbreath Rd., Sparkman said. Burgos added that some of the Rd. at Nesmith Rd./Coronet Rd., north of information used to identify problem Knowles Rd. between Bryan and Bell areas was collected from documented Shoals Rds., McMullen Loop and reports of flooding and comments from McMullen Rd. and W. Trapnell Rd. from the public. Mud Lake Rd. to SR 39. The Alafia River Watershed Master In general, the individual projects call Plan also delineates the river’s floodplain for such things as adding or eliminating and is used by local and regional officials culverts as needed and building infraas well as the Federal Emergency structure to catch and efficiently direct Management Agency to make decisions water to Tampa Bay. Plans do not call for and develop policies. altering natural features of the Alafia River Residents can report street flooding or its tributaries. by visiting www.hillsboroughcounty.org or County Public Works officials calling Hillsborough County Public Works described the seven project plans as at 635-5400.

During this time of help tame inflammation, year, we get our flu shots, lessen stress and help but we also look for ways protect your heart too. to improve our immune They can also be a treatsystem. A healthy, natural ment for constipation, option to improve your joint and muscle aches, immune system are elderheadaches, kidney probberries. lems, minor skin condiValrico resident and tions, stress and fevers.” mom of two little girls What makes Laura DiSalvo believes in DiSalvo’s elderberry the health benefits of syrup and gummies difelderberries so much that ferent from store-bought she created a line of versions is that she organic elderberry syrups makes each batch small Local Valrico resident and mom and gummies. of two little girls Laura DiSalvo enough that she can created a line of organic “I have a degree in monitor the temperature elderberry syrups and gummies. so she never overcooks biology and a Master in Biotechnology Business Management,” or de-natures her berries. “The inside of DiSalvo said. “In the beginning of my the berries is the true medicine,” DiSalvo working years, before I stopped to stay at said. “If you’re getting elderberry from home with my girls, I worked in a military someone and they are not squishing the lab, working on various contracts. I've berries after cooking, you’re not getting been making elderberry syrup and gumthe true benefit. mies for over four years now after trying It's a long process, time-consuming the store-made ones from different and messy, so most other makers may stores. We were hooked on elderberries, skip this part. I love it, though. I strain two but the price for such a small bottle for all times with cheesecloths to ensure it is of us and how thick it was, I found myself smooth. I add local raw honey only when looking for other options. I found a few it is cooled down to ensure I will not depeople who sold it homemade, but I was nature my honey. I also only use organic, not impressed. One was either too watery pesticide-free elderberry.” Her local raw or another didn't taste right, so I decided I honey comes from Andersen’s Apiary in was going to make my own, and here we Riverview. are.” And so, Laura’s Organic Elderberry To learn more about Laura’s Organic and Gummies was born. Elderberry and Gummies, visit www.faceAccording to WebMD, “The berries book.com/LaurasElderberry or email and flowers of elderberries are packed lauraselderberry@yahoo.com. Her elderwith antioxidants and vitamins that may berry syrup costs $20 for a 12 oz. jar and boost your immune system. They can her gummies cost $20 for 120 gummies.

By Brad Stager

Expiration: 1.31.2020

By Libby Hopkins

Expiration: 1.31.2020

February 2020

Page 5

Valrico Edition

W W W

O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R WE’VE MOVED TO VALRICO!

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Grow With Google: Free Digital Skills Workshop & One-On-One Coaching

Wednesday, February 19; 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. C. Blythe Andrews, Jr. Public Library, 2607 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tampa. Grow with Google has teamed up with local libraries to offer training so that Floridians have the opportunity to learn digital skills to grow their careers or businesses. Visit https://events.withgoogle.com/join-google-in-florida/tampa/#content

Pet Vaccination Clinic At Kim’s Natural Pet Foods

Saturday, March 7; 11 a.m.-12 Noon Kim’s Natural Pet Foods, 2110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico EZ Pet Low Cost Pet Vaccination Clinic Call 684-3663 to confirm.

Spring Vegetable Gardening Seminar

Saturday, February 22; 10 a.m. at Kerby’s Nursery, 2311 S. Parsons Ave., Seffner. Kids, and even some adults, don’t always like to eat their veggies, but what if they knew where they came from and helped to plant a backyard garden? Come learn how to plant a backyard garden at this free Spring Veggie Gardening Seminar. Call 685-3265 or visit www.kerbysnursery.com.

Free Music Makers Workshop

For kids ages 4-10. Saturdays, February 8, March 7, April 4, May 16 September 12, October 10, November 14 and December 5; 9:30-11 a.m. Florida Academy of Performing Arts inside Music Showcase Located at 402 Oakfield Dr., Brandon Register at FAOPA.org or call 490-2787

Parent’s Night Out

Florida Academy of Performing Arts inside Music Showcase, located at 402 Oakfield Dr., Brandon. The night includes dinner, snacks, games, crafts, movies and more for ages 5-12. Friday, February 14; 5-10 p.m. Fridays, March 6, April 3, May 29, August 28, September 25 and October 23; 3:30-9:30 p.m. Saturday, December 5; 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Grey Matters Toastmasters

First and third Thursday of the month; 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bloomingdale Library at 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico Benefits of the club include confidence-building in public speaking, enhancement of leadership skills and unique, lively, stimulating discussions. Visit https://greymatters.toastmastersclubs.org/.

Social Security Benefits Seminar Hosted By Angeloni Tax Advisory Group

Tuesday, February 18 and March 24; Wednesday, January 15 and February 12; and February 6 and March 12 HCC campus at The Regent, 6437 Watson Rd., Riverview. Learn strategies and principles behind the proper timing of taking Social Security benefits; perfect for ages 58-67. Call 626-7575 to make reservations. Leave a message after 4:30 p.m.

Tampa Bay Chief Petty Officers Meeting

Fourth Thursday each month; 6:30 p.m. Tampa Buffet, 3904 S. Dale Mabry, Britton Plaza, Tampa For information, call Chuck Peterman, President, at 767-1569

Parkinson’s Support Group At Savannah Court Of Brandon

Third Tuesday of the month; 6 p.m. Savannah Court of Brandon, 824 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon Call 643-6767 to RSVP with Rhonda Fournier, Executive Director.

Hawthorne Health & Rehab Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

Third Thursday of the month; 2 p.m. 851 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon For more information or to register, call 661-8998, M-F, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

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Page 6

Volume 17, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

Strawberry Festival...Continued From Page 1 ing group of young ladies who will represent us well for the 85th year,” said President Paul Davis. There is no place better than the Strawberry Festival to catch some of your favorite concerts. Favorites such as Rascal Flatts, 98 Degrees, Patti LaBelle, Sara Evans, MercyMe, Lynyrd Skynyrd and more will take to the Wish Farms Soundstage. Reserved seats for Headline Entertainment shows are available at the Amscot Main Ticket Gate, located at 2209 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City. An additional ticket office located on the southwest corner of the TECO Expo Hall will be open during the festival to sell any remaining reserved seat tickets. With your paid admission, there is also a lot of free entertainment to enjoy. In the Publix Showcase Tent, Dennis Lee and Vocal Trash both take the stage about three times daily. Local talent Soul Circus Cowboys perform on Saturday, February 29 at 6 p.m. Or maybe you love to cook; if so, catch the Publix Aprons Cooking Show on Sunday, March 1 at 6 p.m.

By Michelle Colesanti

The Battle of the Bands Competition will have the best singers, musicians and bands from the area battle it out at this year’s festival. The final event will take place on the Wish Farms Soundstage on Saturday, March 7. Do food contests excite you? A few that you will find at the festival include the Deep Fried Strawberry Pie On a Stick Relay on Thursday, February 27 at 2 p.m. at the Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent, the Fanta Strawberry Soda Throwdown at 2:30 p.m. daily at the Belmont Magic Show Stage and the Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest on Thursday, March 5 at 2 p.m. at the Stingray Entertainment Tent. Don’t forget to catch the Youth Livestock Shows, which will take place throughout the festival days. Other daily activities include the Belmont Magic Show, Robinson’s Racing Pigs, Dakin Dairy Farmers Milking Parlor, K9s in Flight, Kids Coloring Corner and more. For more information on all of the shows and events that will take place at the festival, visit https://flstrawberryfestival.com/.

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Nonprofit Partners With Tide Cleaners To Offer Formal Dresses For Students

By Mia Cafaro

Gowns For Girls is a new organization getting its start in the Bloomingdale area, and it aims to provide prom and homecoming dresses to students who are not able to buy their own. Mulrennan teacher Stephanie Brown and her friend, Alicia Tew, first noticed this need in the community when attending a Bell of the Ball Project event. Bell of the Ball is another nonprofit with a similar goal, but it operates in Clearwater, which is sometimes inaccessible for girls in East Hillsborough. “We realized we could do something really good in our area,” said Brown. Last August, Brown and Tew began requesting donations from the community to build their inventory of formal dresses. A downsizing bridal shop in Brooksville was able to start their collection, and since then donations have poured in from locals. So many dresses have been accumulat-

ed that Bloomingdale Self Storage donated a storage unit to Brown and Tew to use for the project. Tide Cleaners on Bloomingdale is currently a drop-off site for dresses, and it will also clean any donations that need it. All formal dresses are welcome donations, and if Gowns For Girls cannot use a dress, it will be passed along to ECHO, another nonprofit, and be used for fundraising. Additionally, Alteration Specialist Jeanne Fredrichs is generously mending damaged dresses so they can still be used for the project. Tide Cleaners’ and Frederichs’ contributions have made dress a girl is thinking about selling or giving away will also qualify to be donated to Gowns For Girls. The distribution dates for prom dresses will be Wednesday, February 22. Dresses will be available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Centerpoint Church on the corner of Durant Rd. and Miller Rd. In order to receive a dress, girls will have to appear in person with an adult who can attest to their financial difficulties or be referred by school or agency officials. Volunteers will be needed on these dates to help keep things organized and running smoothly. Anyone who is interested in volunteering or has additional questions about Gowns For Girls can contact Brown and Tew at gownsforgirls.info@gmail.com.

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Women Centered 4 Success

Local non-profit Women Centered 4 Success partnered with area high schools to participate in Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s legacy for social change and justice via the second annual MLKDay of Service Student Pantry project. After a successful 2019 Student Pantry Project, the were awarded a grant through Hillsborough Community CollegeMLK Day of Service, to engage neighboring communities in transforming the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday into a day of citizen action and volunteer service. Youth from four local high schools including Spoto, Riverview, Kids Community College and Tampa Bay Technical, participated in the event and provided over 2000 can/dry goods. Women Centered 4 Success is a nonprofit organization committed to provide support for women through equipping, encouraging and empowering them with the connection to tools and services they need for person al growth, housing,

Page 7

Valrico Edition

jobs, your services and health care to achieve a better life. For information contact; Sheila Lewis, Executive Director 9514268 or wc4s2016@gmail.com.

The Bridges Retirement Community Hosts Caregiver College

The Bridges Retirement Community is hosting the Alzheimer’s Association’s ‘Caregiver College,’ a series of educational classes to help you build your caregiver tool kit. When it comes to dementia caregiving, knowledge is power. The classes include: Ten Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s on Tuesday, March 17; Healthy Living for the Brain & Body on Tuesday, March 24; Effective Communication Strategies on Tuesday, March 31; and Legal & Financial Planning on Tuesday, April 7. All classes are held from 10-11:30 a.m. Come to one class or come to four classes. There is no fee to attend. These classes will be held at The Bridges, 11202 Dewhurst Dr. in Riverview. Seating is limited. Please reserve a seat by calling 800-272-3900.

Valrico Elementary School To Hold Its Kindergarten Roundup

Families living in the area surrounding Valrico Elementary School who have

a child turning 5 by September 1 are invited to its Kindergarten Roundup on Thursday, February 20 at 5 p.m. Two proofs of residency, shot record, original birth certificate and physical (supplied by a doctor dated within 12 months prior to first day of school will need to be provided for enrollment. Partial enrollment information will be accepted at the Roundup. Kindergarten Roundup will take place in the Multi Purpose Room at Valrico Elementary School, 609 S. Miller Rd. in Valrico. For more information, call 7446777 or visit http://valrico.mysdhc.org.

Recruitment Event For Child Care Staffing

ChildCare Careers (CCC), the largest staffing firm dedicated to the child care field, will hold a recruitment event on Wednesday, February 19 from 12 Noon-3 p.m. at the Riverview Goodwill Job Connection, located at 10739 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview. CCC provides fully qualified and prescreened teachers, assistant teachers and site directors to child care centers, preschools, and before & after school programs. Since 1996 CCC has served literally thousands of child care centers ranging from small single location centers to many of the largest national organizations. CCC works with all types of child care organizations, including public & private, non-profit & for-profit, Head Start and Early Head Start programs, school districts, and community organizations. For more information, contact Rebecca at 727-578-0999 or tampa.recr3@childcarecareers.net.

Community Action Board Partners With County To Provide Scholarships There are college scholarships avail-

able to qualified Hillsborough County residents through the Community Action Board Scholarship Program this year that can make a difference for a student getting an important education. Hillsborough County Social Services and the Community Action Board have partnered again this year to offer scholarships for up to $5,000 to eligible students who wish to continue their education by attending an accredited institution of higher learning. This includes first-time students and students returning to school. Scholarship applications for the 2019-2020 school year will be accepted through Friday, March 13. Recipients will be notified in writing prior to the start of the fall semester. Applicants need to meet the following eligibility requirements to be awarded a scholarship: must be between the ages of 16 and 24, and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent (16year-olds may apply if they are graduating seniors); reside in Hillsborough County; have a minimum GPA of 2.5; and household income must fall within 125 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The following criteria will also be used to evaluate applicants: community service and school involvement; application and letters of recommendation; academic record (Transcript); essay response and panel interview participation. Application materials can be downloaded on the Scholarship Application page on the County website. Detailed instructions on how to apply can also be found on the page. Students may submit completed applications online, via mail or deliver applications in person to any County Community Resource Center. For questions, contact Juan Fradera at 272-5074.

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Page 8

Volume 17, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

George W. Cralle: Ruskin Pioneer Who Brought Wife Ida & 9 Children To Stay Histories of Ruskin’s founders often focus on the Miller and Dickman families. They are clearly important, but Ruskin would have failed as a community without other early pioneers. George Washington Cralle represents one important group of those early colonists, and his story should be remembered. Ruskin, Florida was an intentional cooperative community. In part, it was founded on the principles of John Ruskin, an English social thinker who believed in the equality of labor, supportive communities and education for all. Some of John Ruskin’s American admirers sought to form socialist, utopian communities in Tennessee and Georgia. Other ‘Ruskinites,’ including George McA. Miller, built college-based communities in Missouri and Illinois. All four of these communities failed. Miller sought a new Ruskin community far from the influences of industrial America and found that isolation on the west coast of Florida. Some from each of these four failed communities followed Miller to Florida, but they were not the only ones to do so. George W. Cralle is an example of this ‘other’ group. He had been engaged in socialist politics in South Dakota and Minnesota and likely became aware of Ruskin through national, socialist newspapers. The new town offered ideas consistent with his own: a cooperative community where all labor was considered equal and where education was free at the new Ruskin College. Family lore adds another element: he was reportedly tired of northern winters. Cralle, his wife Ida Belle and their nine children arrived in Ruskin in late

By Charles Nelson

Photo courtesy of Barbara Williamson

George W. Cralle, age 25.

1913. They secured and cleared a homesite in Ruskin’s third addition. Almost immediately, Cralle and his sons cooperatively pitched in to help their neighbors clear land, dig trenches and plant crops. Cralle also found an outlet for his political interests by attending Socialist Party meetings in Ruskin and in Tampa. In 1916, Cralle received the Socialist Party nomination for Hillsborough County Commissioner after being strongly considered for a US Senate seat. In Ruskin, he could live among people who were compatible with his ideas of progressive reform. A communitarian at heart, Cralle was heavily engaged in Ruskin’s develop-

Family Owned & Operated

before his death in 1936. He was appointed by the railroad to be its freight and express agent as well. In January 1916, Cralle was elected as a school trustee for Ruskin. At least three of his children, Ada, Esther and John (Jack), attended Ruskin College. Esther and Jack played basketball for Ruskin teams, where Jack was the leading scorer on the men’s team in 1917. George was not the only Cralle to be so engaged in his community. His wife, Ida, was a charter member of the Red Cross in Ruskin. His daughter Ada organized a literary society in 1919. The Cralle sons were often seen helping their father in his many cooperPhoto courtesy of Tampa Tribune Jack Cralle (fourth from the left), Ruskin College’s ative projects. While two of the boys left Ruskin to go north to leading scorer, 1917. make their futures, the Cralle girls ment. He helped extend Ruskin’s telemarried into historic, prominent South phone line to the planned Morris Park County families: Leisey, Dickman, Willis, community. He and his sons opened a Elsberry and Surgnier. new road section near the college and George W. Cralle lived his life to supwere often reported to be “repairing lands port his community, his neighbors and his for the community and for neighbors family. He gave freely his abilities, in a seeking help.” cooperative spirit, and sought fair and The Ruskin Co-Operative Mercantile equitable treatment for all in true Ruskin Company elected Cralle as its store mancommunitarian spirit. He was a true ager in 1915 and again in 1916. In founding pioneer of Ruskin. August 1917, Cralle was also elected as a director of the Ruskin Growers Association. In 1923, Cralle managed the Square Deal Store. When the owner sold her business, Cralle bought much of the stock and built a new general store next to the Atlantic Coast Line Station in Ruskin, which he operated until shortly

Charles Nelson Bio Charles Nelson holds a MA degree in History from George Mason University and taught as an adjunct instructor at HCC (Dale Mabry). He is also affiliated with Tampa Bay History Center as a volunteer docent, researcher and community lecturer, with an emphasis on South Hillsborough County history.

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Page 9

Valrico Edition

The Chronic Pain And Wellness Expo Comes To The Florida State Fairgrounds

By Libby Hopkins

Red Carpet audience participaUSA has been tion events,” Longo a part of the said. “We suggest Brandon area that our attendees since 2011. It is be prepared a local enterbecause most of tainment and the exhibitors are events company that will be hosting the Red Carpet USA will be hosting the Chronic Pain Chronic Pain and Wellness Expo at and Wellness the Florida State Fair on Friday and Expo at the Saturday, March 13 and 14. Florida State Fair on Friday and opening Saturday, March 13 and 14. their doors to job opportunities for “We have heard from many peoanyone who is interested.” ple that the health and wellness Longo and her team at Red events they have been attending Carpet USA hope the Chronic Pain have not contributed to educating and Wellness Expo will be a huge them on new and innovative medical success and help their attendees with products,” said Susan Longo of Red their pain management. “We at Red Carpet USA. “Thus, Red Carpet had Carpet hope this event to be a sucdecided to do something about this cess and that those who attend will problem and came up with the idea to walk away with knowledge that there produce an event where we could are new methods of treating pain and show off companies working in the maintaining a healthy lifestyle,” Longo health care field, demonstrate the said. effectiveness of their products while To learn more about the Chronic educating the public on elevating Pain and Wellness Expo, visit Red pain, maintaining a healthy lifestyle Carpet USA’s website at www.redcarwhile having all this information under petusa.us or call Longo at 943-8583. one roof at a two-day chronic pain The Chronic Pain and Wellness and wellness expo.” Expo is free to attend, but the Florida The two-day expo will feature State Fair Grounds may charge to vendors working in the health care park. The event will run from March field as well as offering wellness 13, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., and March 14, 10 products such as CDB items for chila.m.-4 p.m., at the Florida State dren, adults, seniors and pets. “There Fairgrounds’ Agricultural Hall of Fame will be giveaways, product demonbuilding, located at 4800 U.S. Hwy. strations, classes, mini shows and 301 N. in Tampa.

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Page 10

Valrico Edition

Wingspread Farm In Valrico Honored To Be Selected For 2019 Best Of Valrico Award

By Taylor Wells

quality products keep people coming, and some bring their kids and grandkids along for a fun time, like walking around the farm while feeding the chickens. “The chickens have a really nice life. They have a lot of space, and they eat a lot of fresh things from the garden. It’s really nice, people love it, they love to see it. It’s clean, and they love the smells. Ken and Andrea Schielka were shocked and honored when they realized they won the 2019 Best of Valrico Award in the Farm category.

Two local farmers in Valrico, Ken and Andrea Schielka, owners of Wingspread Farm, were very excited and honored when they were told that they won the 2019 Best of Valrico Award in the Farm category. Each year, the Valrico Award Program identifies companies that have achieved exceptional marketing success in their community and business category, focusing on quality, not quantity. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community, and they help make the Valrico area a great place to work, live and play in. When they learned that their farm won this award, they were shocked. “Neither me nor my wife thought it was real, and it turned out it was, Wingspread Farm raises nearly 200 laying and we’re just very honored,” said chickens, which are all given a lot of space Ken. “It’s quite a tribute to what we to roam and forage and eat from the do here.” garden. Andrea always wanted chickens, Grandparents, little kids, everybody and after her husband retired, that comes here,” said Andrea. dream became a reality. They started Farm tours are available; call or with one coop and put in more after text 361-1546 for an appointment. that, then they began baking bread to Andrea bakes fresh bread and cookgo with the eggs and later cookies, ies on Fridays, Saturdays and and with each addition it soon grew Sundays. into Wingspread Farm as it is today. Wingspread Farm can be found The husband and wife team on 3003 Pearson Rd. in Valrico, open designed, built and run the farm from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through themselves. It has nearly 200 laying Wednesday and from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. chickens and produces raw honey, Thursday through Sunday. jams, Hungarian smoked sausages, Visit https://wingspread.farm/ for preserves, avocados, tomatoes, pepmore information. Follow the farm on pers, cucumbers and more. Facebook @wingspreadfarm for The Hungarian-themed farm’s weekly specials and special events, convenient location, casual atmosand look for treasures in its craft barn phere, cleanliness and fresh, highwhile visiting.

Volume 17, Issue 2

Brandon Rotarians Host 28th Annual Golf Tournament At Buckhorn Springs

By Linda Chion Kenney

The 28th annual (BSAC), Rotary Club of Emergency Care Brandon Golf Help Tournament, held in Organization January at Buckhorn (ECHO) and the Springs Golf and Outreach Clinic. Country Club in “This is the Valrico, proved again first year that we the value of golfing had 144 golfers for a cause. and it’s the first Golfers paid tribyear we had ute as well to the Emeritus Rotarian William ‘Bill’ Harper, right teams on the center, is the owner of Buckhorn Springs tournament’s waiting list,” said Golf and Country Club and founder of the Moran, a realtor founder, Emeritus 28th annual Brandon Rotary Golf Rotarian William Tournament. With him are just some of the with Keller 144 players who showed up to play on ‘Bill’ Harper, who Williams. “I have was an early golfer January 16. To Harper’s right is Rotary Club a feeling next of Brandon member Steve Moran, chair of at Buckhorn, estabyear it will sell out the tournament. lished in 1968. Believing in the value of even more quickly because the word friendships made through the game of has spread.” golf, Harper in 2011 bought the then-trouThis year’s tournament follows the bling Buckhorn to ensure it remained a 18th annual B. Lee Elam Charity Golf private golf course rich in tradition. Classic on October 10, 2019, which also Designed by Harris Green, Buckhorn is supported BSAC, ECHO and the known for its scenic views, natural Outreach Clinic. A week later, the 19th springs, tough back nine, challenging finannual Kiwanis Club of Greater ishing holes and friendly atmosphere. Brandon Golf Tournament, also at “I love the game, the competitive side Buckhorn, raised money to support the of it and I love the people who play the Terrific Kids student recognition program game,” Harper said. “You meet great peo- in area schools. ple from all walks of life. I always had an Golf tournaments “are good for us interest in people, learning about them and they’re good for the community,” and what they do for a living. It’s unbeliev- said Troy Perssons, Buckhorn’s head able all the things that they do.” pro and general manager. “We’re glad Tournament Chair and Rotarian Buckhorn can support events like this Steve Moran said a record number of for the community.” golfers played at the January 16 tournaThe Buckhorn Springs Golf and ment, netting more than $20,000 in Country Club is located at 2721 South donations for three charities: the Miller Rd. in Valrico. Call 689-7766. Visit Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center www.buckhornsprings.com.

Expiration: March 31, 2020

February 2020

Page 11

Valrico Edition

East Hillsborough Community Meeting Welcomes Congressman Spano As Guest Speaker

By Gwen Rollings

present, including representatives from nonprofit organizations, local businesses, volunteers with religious charities, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and concerned citizens. Several months ago, members of this community meeting Congressman Spano was guest speaker at the East Hillsborough Community Meeting. compiled a list of 19 communiU.S. Rep. Ross Spano left the halls ty needs and of Congress in Washington D.C. recentgaps in service ly to pay a visit to many constituents around the East and friends meeting in a hall of Bay Life Hillsborough Church in Brandon. On January 21, area, such as: more low-income housing, Spano was the guest speaker at the East affordable childcare, resources for foster Hillsborough Community Meeting. Spano care, more emergency shelters, skill greeted everyone with a handshake prior development programs, free parenting to being introduced by Cheryl Hickman, classes, shelter for the elderly mentally ill executive director of Women’s Resource who are homeless and options for counCenter of Tampa. Spano began by seling and mentoring youth. As many of acknowledging his lifelong ties to the these concerns were voiced, Spano lisBrandon area, which he called his tened, offered solutions when appropri“stompin’ ground” and recalled memories ate, took note of unresolved issues and involving boyhood friend Pat Simmons, promised to continue making constituents’ who was in the audience. concerns his priority. Spano said his passion is to serve. Hickman concluded by thanking He served in the Florida legislature for Spano and reminding everyone that three terms. He authored and passed copies of the 2019 East Hillsborough more anti-human trafficking bills than any Community Resource Guide, an up-toother member of the Florida House in hisdate guide developed for those in need tory. He is a strong supporter of the right and facing emergency/urgent life events to life, our veterans, the Second to local community agencies and organiAmendment, small business and limited zations for assistance, are still available. government. Spano received an A-rating At the next meeting, at 1:30 p.m. on from the Susan B. Anthony List in its Tuesday, February 18, the Hillsborough brand-new Pro-Life National Scorecard. County Sheriff’s Office will speak on Spano responded, “As a father and homelessness and Carol Toffolon from grandfather, I believe every child has a The Charity Branch will share how busiright to life.” He added that after serving in nesses can impact social issues through the U.S. Congress for a year, “We need collaboration. Contact information: email prayer.” Cheryl@wrctampa.org or call 813-309After his comments, Spano respond3357. ed to questions and concerns from those

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Volume 17, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

The Brenda Wade Team Loves SOLD Signs! Top Listing Agent in Hillsborough! 309 Homes Sold in 2019! LD

104 Brookover Ln LD

251 Hardcastle Pl LD

104 Hidden Lake Dr LD

306 Roxbury Crossing Ct LD

527 Rapid Falls Dr D OL

D OL

754 Cape Cod Cir

926 John Cressler Dr

1012 Giggleswick Ln

D OL

1220 Carriage Park Dr

1302 Steeple Hill Ct

1706 Winn Arthur Dr LD

2005 River Crossing Dr

2007 Highview Fall Pl

2326 Valrico Forest Dr LD

2424 Camden Oaks Pl LD

2606 Sablewood Dr

2612 Clareside Dr

D OL

2827 Timber Knoll Dr LD

3035 Colonial Ridge Dr D OL

3509 Autumn Glen Dr LD

3811 Cold Creek Dr

2834 Buckhorn Preserve Blvd LD

329 Hawk Talon Dr LD

1012 Jameson Rd D OL

3924 Buckingham Loop Dr

714 Citrus Wood Ln D OL

807 King Leon Way

814 Citrus Wood Ln LD

818 Greenbelt Cir

1019 Sweet Breeze Dr

1020 Oliveto Verdi Ct S

1406 Hatcher Loop Dr

1417 Scotch Pine Dr

1505 Carter Oaks Dr

1507 Windy Gap Pl

1730 Loriana St

1733 Staysail Dr

1803 Vista River Dr

2009 Cimmaron Run Dr LD

2014 W Willow Dr

2442 Mississippi AveW #27

2613 Hollington Oaks Pl D OL

1819 Camp Florida Rd

2514 Laurelwood Ln

2903 Shetland Ridge Dr

2907 Mossy Timber Trl

3211 Doe Ct

3411 Ranch Rd

4102 Amber Ridge Ln

4510 Squirrell Run Way

4228 Homewood Ln

4514 Compass Oaks Dr

3427 Cypress Landing Dr S

3609 Savannah Lake Pl LD

4339 Balington Dr

4529 Oak River Cir

4603 Dogwood Hills Ct

3701 Turkey Oak Dr SO

4322 Balington Dr

3428 San Moise Pl D OL

3607 Cordgrass Dr

2925 Valencia Ridge St LD

D OL

3414 Sylvan Shadow St S

D OL

2708 Avon River Dr D OL

2913 Hillside Ramble Dr 2914 Copper Height Ct LD

2521 Bellwood Dr LD

2209 Krista Ln LD

D OL

1528 Crooked Stick Dr LD

1835 Greystone Heights Dr

2707 Abbey Grove Dr

D OL

1109 Sagamore Dr

1831 Raven Manor Dr

2202 Golf Manor Blvd

2706 Mock Orange Ct

D OL

2510 Brimhollow Dr

1516 Fox Hill Pl LD

3519 Brook Crossing Dr 3520 Gray Whetstone St 3528 Brook Crossing Dr

3927 Buckingham Loop Dr

1516 Emerald Hill Way

2644 Wrencrest Cir

2615 Green Valley St

D OL

2105 Diane Ave

1106 Dosseywood Ln D OL

D OL

880 Timber Pond Dr

2901 Hillside Ramble Dr

850 Vino Verde Cir

826 N Oregon Ave

D OL

2459 Lake Woodberry Cir

2426 Valrico Forest Dr

2015 Bell Ranch St LD

1804 Parkwood Dr SO

733 Manns Harbor Dr

D OL

724 Wendel Ave

514 Mirabay Blvd

D OL

723 Citrus Wood Ln

D OL

508 E Frances Ave

206 Rembrandt Dr

D OL

1021 Summer Breeze Dr 1101 Oakridge Manor Dr D OL

D OL

719 Flamingo Dr

205 Locust Dr

504 Stone Lake Pl LD

3203 Whispering Dr N

709 Russell Ln #223 D OL

204 Running Horse Rd SO

D OL

3200 John Moore Rd

3512 Hillgrove Rd

501 Citrus Wood Ln

708 Colson Rd D OL

450 S Taylor Rd SO

806 Kirkcaldy Way

164 Biscayne Ave SO

707 Lanewood Dr D OL

402 Kings Path Dr

401 Havenwood Way

126 Holly Tree Ln SO

D OL

1715 Windsor Way

119 Holly Tree Ln

109 47th St

105 W Chelsea St

614 Angelica Pl

748 Cape Cod Cir

D OL

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901 Academy Dr LD

1203 Letona Ln LD

1702 Compton St LD

1856 Tonka Ter LD

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2307 Timbergrove Dr

2529 Brimhollow Dr LD

2708 Durant Trails Blvd D OL

2976 Royal Tuscan Ln LD

2544 Brimhollow Dr LD

2733 Bent Leaf Dr LD

3002 W Mason St #B LD

3506 Autumn Glen Dr

3506 Old Course Ln

D OL

3787 Sandhill Crane Dr LD

3810 Cliffdale Dr LD

4409 Merrick Run Ln

4447 Fennwood Ct

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4713 Ever Lasting Trl LD

5110 Tari Stream Way

5114 Sylvan Oaks Dr

5120 Tari Stream Way

5310 Sanderling Ridge Dr LD

5719 Kingletsound Pl

5729 Eaglemount Cir

D OL

5124 Rolling Fairway Dr D OL

5316 Match Point Pl

5735 Kinglethill Dr LD

5821 Jasper Glen Dr

5905 Egret Landing Pl

5907 Jasper Glen Dr

5910 Watercolor Dr

5911 Jaegerglen Dr

D OL

6019 Kiteridge Dr

6019 Palomaglade Dr

6011 Kestrel Point Ave LD

6115 Wild Orchid Dr D OL

6457 Sunset Bay Cir LD

8844 Alafia Cove Dr LD

10669 Park Meadowbrooke Dr D OL

11414 Scribner Station Ln LD

14206 Quintessa Ln D OL

6011 Quartz Lake Way LD

6121 Kingbird Manor Dr D OL

6628 Summer Haven Dr LD

9331 County Line Rd LD

14208 Lambert Bridge Ln D OL

15920 Sorawater Dr

15963 Fishhawk View Dr

5823 Terncrest Dr

5925 Churchside Dr

5929 Shell Ridge Dr

5949 Jaegerglen Dr

6001 Kestrel Point Ave

6007 Caldera Ridge Dr

D OL

6022 Kiteridge Dr

6022 Shell Ridge Dr

D OL

6030 Rolling Vista Loop LD

6075 Dubois Rd LD

6140 Kestrelridge Dr

6160 Skylarkcrest Dr

6201 Marbella Blvd

D OL

6806 Trent Creek Dr LD

D OL

10125 Paddock Oaks Dr 10131 Paddock Oaks Dr LD

11040 Gulf Blvd, #404

11108 Newbridge Dr

11131 Running Pine Dr

11804 Twilight Darner Pl

14212 Quintessa Ln

14674 Winter Stay Dr

14725 Heronglen Dr

14845 Heronglen Dr

D OL

15718 Ibisridge Dr LD

16114 Palmettorun Cir LD

16155 Bridgepark Dr SO

17506 Buckingham Garden Dr 17739 Bright Wheat Dr

15813 Sorawater Dr

15827 Starling Water Dr LD

17908 Burnt Oak Ln

31959 Amberlea Rd

5862 Fishhawk Ridge Dr LD

6008 Watercolor Dr LD

6107 Plover Meadow St 6109 Audubon Manor Blvd LD

6203 Crickethollow Dr D OL

6231 Olivedale Dr LD

8420 Valrie Ln LD

10511 Egret Haven Ln LD

11354 Hawks Fern Dr 11407 Coventry Grove Cir LD

15209 Merlinglen Pl

15213 Fishhawk Preserve Dr LD

D OL

15901 Sorawater Dr

15907 Sorawater Dr

15918 Ternglade Dr

16406 Chapman Crossing Dr 16609 Kingletridge Ave

15208 Fishhawk Preserve Dr

16312 Bayberry View Dr

15006 Eaglepark Pl

13303 Saw Palm Creek Trl 13445 Graham Yarden Dr 13834 Meadow Oaks Dr SO

12367 Silton Peace Dr

D OL

15743 Fishhawk Falls Dr

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11143 Winthrop Lake Dr 11309 Emerald Shore Dr S

D OL

10430 Riverdale Rise Dr 10431 Riverdale Rise Dr LD

11736 Lynmoor Dr

10302 Sedgebrook Pl

8013 Riverwood Estates Pl 8017 Riverwood Estates Pl SO

D OL

11723 Newberry Grove Loop

10238Timberland Point Dr SO

D OL

7801 Monarch Garden Cir LD

11625 Crest Creek Dr

10211 Red Currant Ct

D OL

7707 Muddy Water Trl LD

6924 Summer Harbor Ln 7637 Dragon Fly Loop SO

D OL

6137 Kestrelridge Dr

D OL

5308 Sagecrest Dr

5716 Tanagerside Rd

D OL

5711 Ternwater Pl

5847 Phoebenest Dr

5109 Sylvan Oaks Dr

5837 Phoebenest Dr

D OL

5830 Village Center Dr

6134 Skylarkcrest Dr

5215 Pine Rocklands Ave

D OL

6126 Gannetwood Pl D OL

15511 Starling Water Dr 15515 Starling Crossing Dr 15534 Starling Crossing Dr SO

5015 Sagecrest Dr

D OL

5609 Tanagerlake Rd

10915 Brice Tree Ct

5501 Branch Oak Pl

D OL

11418 Tanner Ridge Pl

5416 Twin Creeks Dr

D OL

10911 Pond Pine Dr S

5213 Fairway One Dr

5807 Dunlinwood Ln

5210 Sand Trap Pl

5007 Whispering Leaf Trl

D OL

5210 Fairway One Dr

D OL

5201 Laurel Pointe Dr

5346 Silver Sun Dr

5004 Cedar Glenn Ct SO

D OL

4925 Willow Ridge Ter LD

4911 Sapphire Sound Dr

5313 90th Avenue Cir E 5315 Sanderling Ridge Dr

4909 Sylvan Oaks Dr

D OL

Page 13

Valrico Edition

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Page 14

Valrico Edition

Volume 17, Issue 2

Riverview Attorney & Mom Competes On New Season Of The Biggest Loser The Biggest Loser television show that inspired millions of Americans to lose weight and get healthy, premiered its new season on Tuesday, January 28 at 9 p.m. on USA Network. Riverview resident Kristi McCart is among the 12 contestants hoping to become the next Biggest Loser. Hosted by trainer Bob Harper, The Biggest Loser will document the journeys of these courageous men and women as they transform their lives. In addition to losing weight and achieving better overall health, the contestants also reveal compelling personal stories about the obstacles in their lives that made them unhealthy. McCart, 32, is a wife, mother and family law and estate planning Kristi McCart is a law and estate planning attorattorney with her own practice in ney from Riverview who is a contestant on the upcoming season of The Biggest Loser premierRiverview—McCart & Tesmer, P.A. ing on Tuesday, January 28 at 9 p.m. on USA McCart’s unhealthy relationship with Network. food started in childhood and the found that she was so busy she was stress of a being a new mom with not giving attention to her own her own busy law practice added to health. McCart found herself weighher unhealthy habits. ing more a year after her son was Her law firm helps local Tampa born than she weighed when she Bay families through difficult life tran- was pregnant. sitions and restructuring. McCart At 264 pounds, McCart knew she explains that it can be very difficult needed to get motivated to get seeing the best people going through healthy for herself and for her family. their worst times. “It carries an intan“I found myself wanting to do more gible emotional burden sometimes activities like going to the beach, ridthat, for me, became tangible in a ing amusement park rides and runweight gain because I started stress ning in charity races, but I let my snacking while sitting behind my weight dictate my activities and life,” desk and computer.” said McCart. “I wanted to do more In addition, as a new mom she with my family—specifically my son.”

By Kelly Wise Valdes

As she watched television with her husband one evening, she saw the casting audition ad for The Biggest Loser. “As I read the casting information, I thought, ‘I am fed up feeling this way about myself and I am ready for a change,’” said McCart. “I felt like I wasn’t living my best life and I knew I could do more.” McCart had been athletic growing up and always enjoyed watching the previous seasons of The Biggest Loser. She knew that if she was chosen to be on the show, it would be a

big sacrifice physically, mentally, emotionally and financially for her as well as her husband of nine years, Tom, and their 20month-old son. Her husband told her he was 100 percent on board with her decision. “So with hope, excitement, fear and utter disbelief, I filled out the application, made my video and woke up the next morning with a missed phone call from the casting director,” said McCart. When people ask McCart why she decided to go on a national television show to lose weight, her response is always the same, “There are people who know how to lose weight and there are people who don’t. I did not know how to lose weight with the all the distractions and responsibilities at home, rather I knew how to gain weight really well.” Her journey on The Biggest Loser is a rollercoaster with numerous highs and lows. “There was no way to fully grasp what the journey would entail, but I knew it was going to change me forever—and it did,” she said. For more information, visit www.usanetwork.com or follow updates on Facebook @biggestloser.

February 2020

Valrico Edition

Still Time To Get Your Walking Shoes On For Relay For Life

By Gwen Rollings

Do you donations and ever wonawareness for der if only cancer research one person but equally to celcan make ebrate cancer any difference in the At Relay for Life, survivors and families rally around the hope that all cancers will be fight against cured. cancer? In 1985, Dr. Gordy Klatt, a Tacoma, survivors, Washington surgeon, ran more than 83 their caremiles around the University of Puget takers and Sound track for 24 hours and raised to show support for everyone whose life $27,000 for his local American Cancer has been touched in some way by this Society. In the following year, 220 people devastating disease. of 19 teams joined him, and a worldwide The event lasts an entire day to recphenomenon was born. ognize that when someone has cancer, it In 1994, Relay for Life became the does not stop; the disease is present American Cancer Society’s signature around the clock. To participate for 24 event. Fast forward over 30 years and hours, teams camp overnight and particinow the Relay for Life movement raises pants take turns running or walking laps more than $400 million each year, and normally around a local athletic track. You more than 5,000 Relay for Life events can find a local team to join or create your take place in over 20 countries. This is a own. monumental accomplishment, but it still Relay events takes place in cities begins with one person, one team, one and small towns worldwide usually in this community for one purpose: to attack and order: pre-fundraising, meeting with your defeat cancer. team, opening ceremony, survivor and According to Tammy Schoonover, caregiver laps, time to celebrate, lighting senior community development manager the luminaries and then the closing cerein Tampa, “The American Cancer Society mony. puts these donations to work, investing in Check out one of these local Relay groundbreaking research in every type of for Life events to participate in: cancer and providing free information and SouthShore at Lennard High School on services to cancer patients and their care- Friday and Saturday, March 27 and 28, givers.” Sun City Center at the Freedom Plaza on Relay for Life events will begin here Thursday, April 2 and at Riverview High soon, and maybe you’ve thought about School on Saturday, April 4. getting involved. Each person matters You can register and connect with a and has a part in not only helping to raise local team through www.relayforlife.org.

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Page 15

Up Up And Away Festival Brings Hot Air Balloons To Lakeland

Staff Report

president of Vitae Sports & Entertainment and managing director of Up Up and Away Florida. “Lakeland is a special place and we are excited to launch this niche event to create opportunities for local causes.” Attendees can also The Up Up and Away Florida Hot Air Balloon Festival is coming to the SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus in Lakeland on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, February 28, 29 and March 1. Up Up and Away Florida will host air balloon pilots from across the country for this three-day festival that will feature picturesque ascensions and balloon glows. In addition, the festival will host tethered balloon rides, a kids zone, arts and craft vendors, local eats and treats, beer and mimosa garden, archery tag, flyout and helicopter rides. Live music from award-winning guitarist, songwriter, producer and band leader Rico Monaco, featuring special guest and Billboard Music Award winner Tito Puente Jr., will headline each day, along with other local acts such as Audio Exchange and the Tracey Coryell Duo. “Our entertainment is going to be world-class.” said Ron Clukey, executive director of Up Up and Away Florida. “It’s going to be a fun weekend of hot air ballooning aviation and balloon glows with other unique traditions at SUN ‘n FUN.” In addition to the family sound entertainment throughout the weekend, Shania the Aerialist will defy gravity and dance in the air, performing high above the ground for all three days of the event. And don’t miss On Pointe Dance Academy performing a stunning routine on Saturday at the festival. All eyes will be in the sky and on the ground in Lakeland during this community event. “We’ve received tremendous support from other business and community leaders,” said Chris Antonious,

stay on-site for an extended weekend of RV or tent camping at the SUN ‘n FUN Campgrounds, placing them steps away from the other great attractions it is hosting. Up Up and Away Florida is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit hot air balloon festival that is dedicated to producing a family-oriented, high-quality event that offers other local nonprofits an opportunity to assist in the operations of the festival. It is an educational and community exposition for the citizens and visitors of Florida which fosters pride, education, growth and prosperity. The festival is held at the SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus, located at 4175 Medulla Rd. in Lakeland. One-day passes are $15 per day. Weekend passes are $20 and are only available online until Tuesday, February 25. Children under age 12 get free admission. Tethered rides will be $20 per person and go up 20-30 feet in the air. Riders must be over 36 inches tall, and all balloon activities are weather permitting. For more information about Up Up and Away Florida, please visit www.upupandawayflorida.com.

Page 16

Valrico Edition

Volume 17, Issue 2

4-H Strawberry U-Pick Returns To Fancy Farms For Picking Season

Find Or Sell Your Home With Artistic Duo-Team Shelltown

Rain or shine, Delivery is available Hillsborough County for commercial orders 4-H is set for its annuof more than 50 al Strawberry U-Pick, quarts. at Fancy Farms in Moreover, 4-H Plant City on youth will be on hand Saturday, February to pick for local area 22. This marks an earlier date for the 13th annual event with five days to go before the start of the Volunteer Susan Dumke, at 85th Florida last year's 4-H Strawberry U-Pick at Fancy food banks and to Strawberry Festival in Farms, shows off the quality of strawberPlant City, the ‘Winter help people who ries ripe for the picking at this year's February 22 event. Strawberry Capital of can’t pick for themthe World.’ selves due to age or disability. “This year, we’re the weekend before Yancy works out of the Hillsborough the festival and usually we’re the last County Extension Service, in partnership weekend, so there should be even better with the University of Florida, at 5339 CR strawberries to pick,” said 4-H Youth 579 in Seffner. According to Yancy, there Development Agent Brandi Yancy. are 19 4-H community clubs in the coun“This is the very peak of the strawty, including 11 in the Greater berry season, which means the berries Brandon/Plant City area, and a push to will be gorgeous, luscious and huge,” establish them as well in local schools. added Betty Jo Tompkins, past president “Everybody knows 4-H started for of the Hillsborough County 4-H agriculture, but it’s more than that,” Yancy Foundation and executive director of the said. “It’s designed for youth ages 5 to 18 Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation and it gives them an opportunity to learn District. “This event draws people from more about things they’re passionate throughout the county. It’s an opportunity about and to learn through their projects to get terrific strawberries at a reduced the skills they need to be successful in price and at the same time support 4-H life.” offerings, including leadership camp Clubs select their interests, which scholarships.” include such things as STEM education, The Fancy Farms U-Pick is set to run the arts, gardening, cooking, livestock from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., with $1 quart conand leadership. tainers available to purchase. Pre-picked For more information, call Yancy at strawberries cost $1.50 per quart. 744-5519, ext. 54116.

When buying or Valdez and selling real estate Urbanowski said helpbecomes an intimiing families in their real dating process, estate business can friendly guidance range from finding just can help ease the the right view of a golf concerns that come course green in a up along the way to gated community to closing a deal. arranging financing for That’s where a single parent who Michele Urbanowski may be starting over and Shelly Valdez after a divorce. Team Shelltown of Century 21 Link of Century 21 Link Online marketing Realty are Michele Urbanowski (left) Realty in Brandon by Team Shelltown and Shelly Valdez (right). excel. goes beyond the pair’s Operating as Team Shelltown, they respective websites, www.shellysuperacombine a high level of customer service gent.com and with professional knowledge to assist www.FLhomesbymichele.com, and their real estate clients. According to reflects their local emphasis in the service Urbanowski, that means having more they provide. than a business connection. Facebook page, Shelltown Today, is “We want to become friends and a source of real estate tips as well as continue the relationship,” she said. photos and videos that showcase noteValdez said their clients benefit from worthy properties and highlight dining and the team approach when it comes to recreation options in the community. doing business. Many of those videos can also be seen “Customers will get really good servon YouTube, ShellTown Today. ice because there’s two of us. If Michele’s Urbanowski and Valdez also employ busy, I can step in.” She added that the technology to add security to their clients’ accountability level is increased as well. homes by using electronic lockboxes that “We encourage each other to do bet- are controlled through Bluetooth technoloter.” gy, allowing greater ability to restrict Each of them have backgrounds as access. art educators (both have taught in the With Team Shelltown as part of area’s public schools), and, according to Century 21 Link Realty, buyers can find a Urbanowski, real estate is another way to new home just about anywhere in the serve the community. world, from Brandon to Buenos Aires, “I’ve always been interested in real with Century 21’s global reach. estate and I love helping children, but Connect with Valdez and Urbanowski now I can help families,” said through Century 21 Link Realty by calling Urbanowski. 684-0036.

By Linda Chion Kenney

By Brad Stager

February 2020

Page 17

Valrico Edition

Run Hillsborough Series Features Races In Riverview And Dover

Adults Get To Play Like A Kid Again At Glazer Children’s Museum’s Grown Up Nights

Hiking Spree that starts on Sunday, November 1 and ends on Monday, March 1, where participants Run Hillsborough 5K features four races from January through April at dif- can earn a ferent parks located around the county. medal or Do you want to start 2020 on the patch by hiking on at least eight designatright foot? Hillsborough County has created trails located throughout the county. ed a fun, unique race for local runners. “Walking, running, anything you can Run Hillsborough 5K features four do with the outdoors is definitely a benefit races from January through April at differ- to you healthwise,” said Bowers. ent parks located around the county, “Connecting our community with our including Riverview on Saturday, parks, whether it be through playing on a February 15 and Dover on Saturday, playground, taking a hike or running a March 21. This is the first year that the 5K, that’s our goal as a department, to county has offered a race series. connect our parks and our communities According to the Hillsborough County and the families that live in them.” website, races allow participants to comThe next race will be on Saturday, pete against other racers on a journey February 15 at 12108 Rhodine Rd. in through nature preserves, conservation Riverview. Check in at 7:30 a.m., and the parks, streams, trails and a variety of ter5K Race starts at 8:30 a.m. rains. All participants get a T-shirt and can Other upcoming races in the Run claim their medal at the end of the race. Hillsborough series include the William On January 11, the first race of the Owens Pass Park 5K on Saturday, series, the Ed Radice event, featured a March 21 at 1300 Sydney Dover Rd. in 5K race/one-mile walk. Pets were Dover and the Carrollwood Village Park allowed on the walk as well. According to 5K on Saturday, April 18 at 4680 West Vince Bowers, Hillsborough County Village Dr. in Tampa. Parks & Recreation program supervisor, Fees are $30 per runner for the 5K about 100 runners participated in the and $15 for the walk. For more informarace. tion, contact Vince Bowers Bowers said that the county offered (BowersV@hcflgov.net) or call 557-8272. two races in 2018 and that they wanted Runners can also view their race results expand on that, as well as their annual on HillsboroughCounty.org.

Irish playwright cost $25 and George Bernard include free Shaw once said, beer by Florida “We don’t stop Avenue playing because Brewing and we grow old; we snacks from grow old because local restauwe stop playing.” rants while supThe creative minds plies last. There at Glazer is also a cash Glazer Children’s Museum offers Grown Up Children’s Museum bar available for Nights so that adults can learn about the (GCM) would cocktails. In the museum while having fun playing. The next Grown Up Night will take place on Friday, agree with Shaw coming year, March 13 from 5:30-8 p.m. because they GCM hopes to believe you’re never too old to play like a expand Grown Up Night to include even kid. They believe in this so much that they more partnerships with Tampa-based offer adults the opportunity to play like businesses. All the proceeds from Grown kids in the museum every other month. Up Night go to fund the educational proThis playful opportunity is called Grown grams at GCM. “We love Grown Up Night Up Night. because it gives us the opportunity to Grown Up Night started in 2017 as a share our museum with guests who might way to generate funds for GCM, a nonnot otherwise get to play here,” said profit organization. “We started hosting Woods. “We believe that play matters them quarterly and when they started to and hope to inspire the grown ups in our take off, we began hosting Grown Up community to play like kids again.” Night every other month,” said GCM’s Future dates and themes for GCM’s school and youth programs manager, Grown Up Night are March 13 with the Emily Woods. “At this point, we’ve hosted theme being ‘Spring Break’ as well as about 12 Grown Up Nights with themes Friday, May 29 with the theme being ranging from ‘Outer Space’ to ‘Toga ‘School’s Out for Summer.’ Party’.” The next one will take place on If you would like to learn more about Friday, March 13 from 5:30-8 p.m. Grown Up Night at Glazer Children’s GCM’s last Grown Up Night was held Museum or if you’d like to purchase tickon January 10 and was ‘Pirate Invasion’ ets for the event, you can visit the musethemed. Local Gasparilla Krewes invaded um’s website at Grown Up Night, where they passed out https://glazermuseum.org/grownups or beads and posed for photo ops with call 443-3861. Glazer Children’s Museum guests, as well as participating in the is located at 110 W. Gasparilla Plz. in event’s activities. downtown Tampa next to Curtis Hixon Tickets for GCM’s Grown Up Night Park.

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Page 18

Volume 17, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

Local Poet Shares His Talents And His Typewritten Prose With The Community

New Heroes Paradise Offers Laser Tag, RC Cars, Rock Wall, VR & More

Author Helen Keller on demand through a once said, “The best and typewriter actually came most beautiful things in to me thanks to a good the world cannot be friend of mine. She had seen or even touched, mentioned how she’d they must be felt with the seen street poets when heart.” Juan Lli of she went to New Riverview would agree Orleans and how that with Keller because the would be a good thing to beautiful words he crebring to Tampa. I manates with his poetry aged to borrow a friend’s touch the hearts of his typewriter and even Juan Lli is a local poet from poetry clients. when I didn’t think I Riverview. What is unique about could do it, I sat down in “I started to write Lli and his poetry is that he can poetry back when I was create a poem for someone after front of strangers, typed only speaking to them for a few their ideas, stories and 16 or 17 years old,” Lli minutes. He also creates the said. “I was having a thoughts through my poem on his antique typewriter rough time with my words and through the while they wait for their poem. You can find Lli at Full Grown Girl keys of that old, beautiful depression, although I in Winthrop Town Center, located machine.” didn’t know I had it. at 11267 Winthrop Main St. in Writing came to me as a Lli has written Riverview. tool to understand myself in a way I had poems for people of all ages and backnever experienced before. I remember I grounds. He has typed out poems with was chatting with my best friend one Bron on various topics, from mustaches afternoon, telling him how I felt emotional- to watermelons. “I have written poems for ly exhausted and didn’t understand why. kids about mustaches, watermelons, sucThat’s when he shared something he had culents and monsters,” Lli said. “I have written and told me to ‘just write.’” written poems for grandmothers to their Lli was born in Venezuela in 1995. grandchildren and vice versa. Love Because of the political situation in the poems, heartbreak poems, food, friendcountry and his father’s job, he and his ship and solitude. I try to take note of all family moved around and Lli changed of these because they are meaningful. I schools frequently. “In 2014, my parents believe that the biggest thing I have to and I moved to the States,” Lli said. “The offer is a human experience.” move to the States affected my writing to The reactions he has gotten from his the point that the first three years I could clients have been tears of joy and happionly write four or five pieces, which ness that neither Lli or his clients could weren’t all that great, before I gave up on hold back. “That’s the kind of thing I it. Early 2018 is when I got back into poet- crave,” Lli said. “And the kind of thing I ry after bumping into multiple videos of offer. I know my limitations as a writer, but spoken word artists.” I also know my strengths as a human.” What is unique about Lli and his If you would like to learn more about poetry is that he can create a poem for Lli, you can follow him on his blog at someone after only speaking to them for www.juanspeaks.co/best-way-to-starta few minutes. He also creates the poem writing-just-write/ or on his Instagram on his antique typewriter while they wait account at for their poem. “Well, ‘Bron’—yes, that’s www.instagram.com/juanspeaks. my typewriter’s name—came to me after You can also find Lli at Full Grown a couple of weeks of looking for typewritGirl in Winthrop Town Center, located at ers,” Lli said. “The idea of writing poetry 11267 Winthrop Main St. in Riverview.

Heroes Paradise, was a need to develop a located at 733 Knowles family-oriented entertainRd. in Brandon, is a ment facility that partfamily-owned entertainnered with local first ment center that aims responders in order to to provide a meeting create a new haven for place where people of the community to come all ages can play a part together. They think in having fun and creHeroes Paradise will proating strong bonds vide that opportunity for within our community this and future generabetween first respontions to come. Colin (left), Tim ders, military members, Every aspect of the (back middle), Julie (front), Ethan (front families and youth. center has been crafted middle) and Dylan (right). The facility is now around family with traces of open and welcoming all ages to come the Pennengas found within the business and engage in activities such as: tactical as well. Their logo, featuring a beautiful laser tag with four different fields to pup as the star, is inspired by a member choose from, an interactive rock wall, on of their family, Ragnar, a 4-year-old and off-road remote control (RC) cars, vir- Belgian Malinois. You can meet Ragnar tual reality, archery tag and one-of-a-kind at Heroes Paradise and even bring your yard games. With eight acres of property pup to join in on the fun as all of the outand various attractions, there is somedoor areas on the property are dogthing for everybody of any age. friendly. The owners of the establishment, In addition to five fields of game play, Julie and Tim Pennenga, conceived this there is a two-story air-conditioned clubdream four years ago when they purhouse with views of all the fields so chased the property that was previously everyone can watch the action under the the Hidden Palms Tennis Club. The club comfort of a cool breeze. There is also a had been left abandoned for years and second story deck that overlooks the was a haven for crime and misconduct. main tactical field to allow family and Still, the family persisted, and with the friends to check out the live action up help of their three sons, Colin, Dylan and close. Inside the clubhouse, a wide Ethan, they embarked on a four-year range of amenities can be found, includjourney in restoring the facility and creating a cafe and showers for anyone who ing Heroes Paradise. gets a little too messy on the tactical The inspiration behind the business fields. was sparked from Tim's occupation as a Heroes Paradise also hosts an array Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Deputy cou- of private events, ranging from corporate pled with the family’s desire to provide an team building to birthday parties for all atmosphere where civilians could interreages. Hours of operation are Thursdaylate with and get to know a different side Friday from 1-8 p.m., Saturday from 10 of law enforcement officers. Instead of a.m.-8 p.m. and Sunday from 12 Noon-8 only interacting with our first responders p.m. Hours can be expanded for any in a time of emergency or infraction, the party or private event. Go out and enjoy community can play alongside officers the fun at the newest family-friendly busiand get to know the individuals who serve ness in Brandon. to protect their neighborhood. Visit www.HeroesParadise.com or As residents of the Brandon area for call 833-543-7637 or email nearly 20 years, the Pennengas felt there HeroesParadiseATeam@gmail.com.

By Libby Hopkins

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February 2020

Valrico Edition

vy a N , e m ri c r e b y C our T d n a B e & Mor

new in Alzheimer’s research and an opportunity to ask an expert. Lunch will be provided as well as guest speaker Jill Smith from the Global Alzheimer’s Platform , e r i e Waym l l e i Foundation. n a D om led by server.c b o y The event will be Compi e r p ire@os held on Wednesday, dwaym February 19 at Tessera Brandon Assisted Living Memory Care, located at 1320 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 607-6880 or visit TesseraBrandon.com. Recruitment Event For U.S. Census

Bureau

Did you know the results of the 2020 Census help determine how billions in federal funding are spent locally for schools, hospitals, roads and more? The U.S. Census Bureau is recruiting over 3,000 temporary positions in Hillsborough and Manatee Counties. Recruitment events will consist of hourlong information sessions for job seekers to gather information and meet with a recruiter. The event is being held at Goodwill’s Job Connection Center, located at 10739 Big Bend Rd. in Riverview, on Wednesday, February 12 and 26 and Thursday, February 20 from 11 a.m-3 p.m. For more information, contact Gloria at 703-887-3868 or visit https://2020census.gov/jobs.html.

Global Alzheimer’s Platform & Stedman Clinical Trials

Dr. Mary Stedman will provide updates on Alzheimer’s disease, what’s

Stingray Chevrolet Is Raffling Off Corvette At Strawberry Festival

Page 19

when you attend ‘Cybercrime – The Crime of the 21st Century’ on Thursday, March 19 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Consumer protection investigators from Hillsborough County Consumer and Veterans Services will bring the latest in fraud trends. The event will be held at The Bridges on 11350 Bloomingdale Ave. in Riverview. Call 413-8900 to G.F.W.C. Valrico Service League members at last year’s Bunco. reserve your seat. 7 p.m. with Bunco starting at 7 p.m. It will be held at Center Place Fine Arts Tampa Selected For U.S. Navy Band Center, located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. Tour in Brandon. Tickets cost $20 and The United States Navy Band is include light dinner, drinks and coming to Tampa during its 2020 tour at prizes. Tickets may be purchased at Center Place or contact Claudia Yake at 6857998. Proceeds help support local school children and families in need in the community.

A 2020 Chevrolet Corvette will be raffled off on Sunday, March 8 at 5 p.m. at Stingray Chevrolet’s vehicle display on the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds. Tickets for the raffle are $5 each and Backpacks On A Mission are available for purchase online until at South Shore United 3 p.m. or through 6 p.m. in person by Methodist Church “Backpacks on Friday, March 6 at the Stingray Chevrolet a Mission”was recently awarded dealership in Plant City. U.S. Navy Band 2020 tour will be coming to Tampa an MLK grant from HCC and the Tickets can be purat the Straz Center for Performing Arts. State of Florida. As part of the chased for all 11 days of the the Straz Center for MLK Day of festival at the Stingray Performing Arts on Service at Chevrolet vehicle display until Thursday, March 5 at South Shore 4:40 p.m on Sunday, March 7:30 p.m. United 8. It is a maximum of 50 tickThe band will perMethodist ets per person, and you do form music ranging from Church, volnot have to be present to win. traditional wind band unteers from All proceeds benefit Unity in the repertoire to broadway HCC SGA, Community, a Plant City organization that showstoppers, rhythm HCC Nursing contributes to local youth organizations and blues, pop and students, Girl and groups that provide assistance to patriotic favorites. Scout Troop underprivileged families. Backpacks On A Mission The event is free 33304 and and open to the public; get tickets by members from SSUMC spent the mornHow To Protect Yourself From completing the order form at https://strazing transporting non perishable items Cybercrime center.org/Events/Straz/Shows/1920_Mus and stocking the Backpacks on a Learn how to avoid being a victim ic/United-States-Navy-Band. Mission pantry. Backpacks on a Mission’ focus is to The G.F.W.C. Valrico Service provide food for needy elementary League, Inc. Presents ‘Puttin' On school children over the weekend who The Ritz Bunco’ might not have other resources availCome join the G.F.W.C. Valrico able. Service League's Putting on the Ritz For more information call 677-9482 Bunco for a night of fun on Thursday, or SSUMC located at 11525 Big Bend March 7. Social Time/Dinner is from 6Rd, Riverview.

Page 20

Volume 17, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

opter c i l e H y urne Golf To pers & a i D , p Dro ore M , t e k r s, Ma Waymire e i k c u D ielle by Dan r.com ed ve Compil @ospreyobser e ir m dway

Choices Annual Golf Tournament With Helicopter Drop

Choices, formally known as the LifeCare Network, will hold its annual golf tournament fundraiser on Friday, March 6 at the newly renovated River Hills Country Club in Valrico. Check-in begins at 11 a.m. and is followed by lunch and a helicopter golf ball drop. The shotgun start is at 12:45 p.m. The registration fee is $150 per person and includes golfing, lunch, dinner, shirt, a goodie bag and contests along the golf course. The nonprofit exists to lead those they serve to know Christ, protect the sanctity of human life and promote biblically based sexuality according to God’s plan for marriage. For more information, visit https://empoweredtochoose.net. To register or become a sponsor for the golf fundraiser, please contact Jessica Rickenbach at jessica@choicesclinics.org or 654-0491. The River Hills Country Club is located at 3943 New River Hills Pkwy. in Valrico.

prizes, free Gatsby photos, dancing, a delicious buffet dinner, and both live and silent aucBrandon Christian tions. Highlighting the evening Women’s Connection is giving is our Speakeasy show, headlina baby shower for Choices of er R&B star David Morris who Brandon. The next Luncheon will perform songs from 1920 to “Diapers, Dimples and 2020 including songs from his Duckies” on Tuesday March newly released album. There will 10th at Buckhorn Springs also be Speakeasy Dancers to Country Club, 2721 South teach the Charleston, so wear Miller Road, Valrico, 11.00 a.m. to your best flapper outfit. 1.00 p.m. will be a fun and joyous Elks Lodge of Brandon is If you are a vendor and would like to participate in occasion to shower those in need Grace Community Church’s first Spring Market on located at 800 Centennial Lodge who seek out Choices, Women’s Saturday, March 21, email bosefer11@yahoo.com or Dr. in Brandon. Tickets cost $45 Center with baby needs of all kinds, call 361-1724. for adults (active military and (including diapers, wipes, bibs, botness you would like to promote? veterans get 20% off), and $10 for tles, blankets) gift cards and baby Vendors are needed for the venchildren aged 5-12 years, free for chilclothes up to 2T. There will be games dor show. Deadline for vendor sign up dren under 5 years. Tickets may be with prizes together with lunch and a is March 1. $25 rental space for 6ft purchased by phone 681-6547 or at: guest inspirational speaker $15 and table (bring your own table). $35 rental www.bethshalom-brandon.org/. space for 8x8 tent (bring your own tent). Saturday, March 7 from 8a.m.Seeking Vendors For Lithia Spring noon. 4929 Bell Shoals Rd.Riverview. Market In March For more information visit Vendors are being sought by www.myoverflowchurch.com or Grace Community United Methodist chris@myoverflowchurch.com. All proChurch in Lithia for its first-ever ceeds benefit Children and Youth Spring Market on Saturday, March Ministries 21. Much like the Holiday Market, this We’re Not Getting Any event, to be held Younger from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., A series aimed to help is being presented with the special challenges by the Women of faced by middle aged and Grace. The church beyond. is located at 5708 first time guests pay $10. This Monday, February 17, Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. is a nondenominational event Wednesday, March 4 and Sunday Organizers are seeking vendors and no membership is required March 23 at 7p.m. to sell a variety of products, such as but please make a reservation (and Series fee is $35 for non memarts and crafts, jewelry, clothing and don’t forget your unwrapped baby gift) bers, $25 for members. more. National companies will be on with Lillie 813-740-0098 for informaCongregation Beth Shalom locata first-come, first-served basis. For tion. ed at 706 Bryan Road, Brandon example, only one Mary Kay repreCall 681-6547 for reservations. sentative or one Premier Jewelry Overflow Church Market vendor will be allowed. Do you have a product or busiBeth Shalom Partners With Special The fee for a 10 ft. x 10 ft. space Operations Warrior Foundation is $25. The proceeds will help supFor Charity Gala port missions in the community. The Congregation Beth Shalom partmarket will be outdoors, and vendors ners with Special Operations Warrior are asked to provide their own tents, Foundation for its annual fundraiser on tables and chairs. Food will be availFeb 22, 2020 from 5:30 p.m. This able for purchase. year’s event is a Roaring 20’s Charity Visit www.graceholidaymarket.com Gala with special honorary Co-chairor contact Event Organizer Susan man, Congressman Ross Spano. Ferraro at bosefer11@yahoo.com or The evening will feature door 361-1724.

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February 2020

Valrico Edition

Page 21

Attorney Inspires Children To Pursue Law & Join Family Run Griffin & Associates

Start Fresh And Renewed With Nékter In Valrico, Celebrating One Year In Business

After brother/sister Ryan, who attended duo Ryan and Rachel Florida State University Griffin graduated from College of Law (his parlaw school and passed ents met in Tallahassee), the state bar, the decisaid they take the idea of sion of which law firm a family business to a to join seemed easy: whole new level. He said The Law Offices of he is often asked how he Griffin & Associates, can work with family. “I P.A. tell them it’s been very With their mother, rewarding,” he said. “Not Eileen Griffin, at the only do I get to practice helm of the firm that law with a seasoned has been assisting attorney, but I get to see Eileen Griffin and her children, residents and busiRyan and Rachel Griffin, offer their my people every day.” legal services to Tampa Bay area nesses in the Tampa Eileen is extraordiresidents. Bay region for more narily proud to have both than 30 years, they knew there was no of her children practicing law in the family better place to hone their skills. firm and for their grit, or strength of charNow with a few years’ tenure at the acter involving courage and resolve, a firm (Ryan joined the firm in 2016 and personality trait that can’t be taught. Rachel in 2017), they said their decision “To be able to practice law is a priviwas critical to their success as attorneys. lege, not a right, and is a privilege earned “My mom has been practicing law for by maintaining an honorable character” 33 years, so we have an excellent menshe said. “Both Ryan and Rachel have tor,” said Rachel. “We’re here to learn demonstrated professional integrity, and everything we can from her.” for that I am most proud.” When your mother is the senior attorThe Law Offices of Griffin & ney, there’s plenty of face time with the Associates, P.A., located at 1430 Oakfield boss. “We will go into her office and Dr. in Brandon, is a multi-service firm and bounce ideas off her,” she added. is able to meet a wide variety of legal Rachel, a graduate of Stetson needs, including marital and family law, University College of Law in 2017 (where personal injury/wrongful death, probate, her mother graduated in 1986), credits wills/trusts/estates and civil litigation. the successful partnership to their close Clients of Griffin & Associates benefit from relationship. not just one lawyer, but a highly effective “We’re a close-knit family that enjoys team of experienced attorneys, paralebeing with each other every day,” she gals and legal assistants. said. “Even on weekends I’ll take my For more information or to schedule dogs to my parent’s house so they can a consultation, visit www.egriffinlaw.com play with their two dogs.” or call 681-2612.

Nékter Juice Bar in Valrico has been in business for one year, and it is proud that it’s been a year of providing healthy, organic and tasty food and drinks. If you’re someone looking to start fresh and cleanse your body or Nékter uses only fresh and natural ingredients, no artificial just want something additives or junk foods, giving customers a healthy option that’ll leave your taste buds wanting more. good to eat, then this is the perfect place. February, like the Apple Cider Spritzer. At Nékter, you can enjoy juices, Hileman also plans on opening more smoothies, açaí bowls, fusion blends, locations and is looking in the its own take on vegan ice cream called Riverview area. Skoop and Nékter Cleanses, which are The juice bar does catering as well, perfect for detoxing and resetting your which includes an açaí bowl kit that body. All the flavors come from fruits serves six to eight people and a fresh and vegetables; no artificial ingredients juice kit for eight to 12 people. This is are added, so it is all naturally deliperfect for creating your own Nékter cious. experience with your coworkers, friends Scott Hileman, franchise owner of and family. three Nékters, said he opened his first If you download Nékter’s app, you Nékter in Valrico because, “I was familcan get a free smoothie or juice, join iar with the Valrico and FishHawk marthe loyalty program and order ahead of ket, and there wasn’t a whole lot there time so your order is ready on arrival. as far as what we provide. At that spot “I really appreciate the support. where the old Starbucks opened up, I That was our first store open and it’s thought it would be a great spot, and still our best performing store. I’m it’s been very successful.” happy to be there and we like to stay The Açaí Banana Berry Bowl is a involved with the community,” said favorite among customers, and people Hileman. who aren’t sure what they want can be Nékter is open from 7 a.m.-9 p.m., guided by employees to find the best Monday through Saturday, and 8 a.m.-9 option for them. Hileman personally p.m. on Sundays. It is located at 3482 enjoys the Health Nut and Turmeric Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico, 4009 W. Sunrise smoothies as well as the Toxin Kennedy Blvd. in Tampa and 3236 Little Flush and The Buzz juices. Rd., Ste. 37 in Trinity. For more inforNékter will bring new menu items in mation, visit www.nekterjuicebar.com/.

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Page 22

Valrico Edition

Volume 17, Issue 2

February 2020

Page 23

Valrico Edition

Twin Creeks Residents Welcome New Resident, Cay, An Amazon Parrot

BSAC Partners With Livingstone Academy For Student Programming

When Twin and one day he’ll say it Creeks Assisted Living back to me,” she said. and Memory Care So far, she’s had business office director no luck. Stacie Leonard Resident brought her pet, a16Marguerite Studstill year-old blue-fronted sings to him. “I try to Amazon parrot named get him to sing but he Cay to work, she didn’t just looks at me,” she know he’d become joked. such a hit with her bird Twin Creeks marand residents alike. keting director Krysta “He likes a lot Lowe said visiting Cay more interaction than is just another choice Twin Creeks residents enjoy visiting he was getting at residents have. “Some one of its newest residents, a 16-yearhome and our resiresidents don’t want to old blue-fronted parrot. dents were fascinated with him,” she said. participate in our scheduled group activiCay started visiting the facility more ties but they will walk to the conservatory often until Leonard had trouble getting to visit Cay,” she said. “It gives them him out of his cage at night to go home another option.” with her. “He made it pretty clear to me It’s no surprise that Twin Creeks that he liked it here so Cay spends week- Assisted Living and Memory Care is a days at Twin Creeks and comes home pet-friendly community. with me only on the weekends,” she said. Space is currently available in the 96 It’s no wonder he’s a happy bird with bed (64 assisted living and 32 memory so many residents coming out to talk to care) facility located at 13470 Boyette Rd. him. in Riverview. Its healthcare team includes If he wants someone to visit him? He a 24-hour nurse, onsite physical, occupadoes what any sensible parrot would tional and speech therapy and physicians do…he barks like a dog until someone that come on-site to offer dentistry, podiacomes to talk to him. try, dermatology and chiropractic services. Resident Nila Jones visits him in his An ECC (Extended Congregate Care) cage in the sunny conservatory three license allows residents to age-in-place. times a day, patiently trying to teach the Just a few of the amenities residents bird to say her name. The 86-year-old enjoy are restaurant-style dining, a fullsaid she never had birds growing up and schedule of daily activities, craft room, fitbeing around one that can talk is pretty ness center, hair salon, library and more. neat. Sometimes he whistles at her or To learn more or to schedule an says a word. appointment, visit “I’m going to come out every day and www.twincreeksretire.com or call 336patiently repeat my name over and over 2128.

Brandon Sports amazing organization is and Aquatic Club a natural fit in that it (BSAC) and brings more of a focus Livingstone Academy and spotlight on the have long been leaders special needs commufor special needs edunity. ." cation in Hillsborough Once students age County. Now, they join out of the traditional forces in a new partnerschool system, howevship, filling a gap in er, there are very few Chuck Burgess, CEO of Brandon much needed services Sports and Aquatics Center, and resources available for Chris Pello, CEO of Livingstone for special needs stuthem to continue eduAcademy, worked together to offer cational programming. dents and adults. educational programming at BSAC Chuck Burgess, After identifying this for students with intellectual disabilities. CEO of BSAC, and gap in services, BSAC Chris Pello, CEO Livingstone Schools, created the TRIDENT program for special met in Leadership Brandon through the needs adults in 2011. In TRIDENT, stuChamber of Commerce in 2014. They dents over the age of 22 are able to quickly built a professional relationship come together for socialization, recreafter discovering their common interest in ation, education, field trips, and sports serving the special needs community. As programming. Livingstone Schools continued to grow, The new partnership between BSAC so did the need for more space. and Livingstone ensures that no student Livingstone Schools opened its fourth or family in need will fall between the location, Livingstone Academy cracks. Students can seamlessly transiExceptional Center on the BSAC camtion from Livingstone into TRIDENT with pus, and their program feeds directly into no lapse in programming. the TRIDENT program offered at BSAC "Our partnership with BSAC is an Livingstone Academy Exceptional answer to prayer,” said Pello. “Due to our Center offers programming for students schools’ tremendous growth, we were in with intellectual disabilities, down synneed of a quality educational facility. drome and autism in grades 9-12. This BSAC provided the ideal space for our high-school program will focus on acahigh school program and our shared goal demic, social, life and job skills. They will of serving the special needs community also offer a transition program for stuwas a perfect fit". dents post high school for ages 18-22. Open enrollment for the 2020/2021 “BSAC is so excited to partner with school year is available at Livingstone Livingstone Academy to expand our speAcademy beginning in February. For cial needs impact pillar of our organizamore information, contact Chris Pello at tion,” said Burgess. “Partnering with cpello@livingstoneschools.org and visit Bernadette and Chris Pello and their their website at Livingstoneschools.org.

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Valrico Edition

Volume 17, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

In This Section

BOARDS FOR BROSS.......................PG 28 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT...............PG 32 RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL .................PG 33 IMPACT...........................................PG 34 February 2020

Volume 17, Issue 2

New Women’s Health Center In Brandon

Ph: 657-2418

In January, Women’s Care Florida opened the doors at its new Women’s Health Center Brandon, located at 515 South Kings Ave. in Brandon. The facility houses four of the practice’s obstetrics and gynecology offices and offers state-of-the-art screening mammography, bone density testing and onsite lab collections. Women’s Care Florida In addition to obstetrics and gynecol- recently opened a new ogy, the Women’s Health Center women’s health center in Brandon. The group Brandon will offer patients access to plans to hold a ribbon cutting at the new facility this month. specialists in breast surgery, gynecollic, at the Brandon Health Center next ogical oncology, as well as genetic month. Visit www.womenscarefl.com. and nutrition counseling. It will also soon be home to fertility specialist, Dr. Academic Alliance In Dermatology Shane Plosker of Shady Grove Open House At Plant City Location Fertility, in partnership with Women’s You are invited to attend an open Care Florida house for Academic Women’s Care Alliance in Dermatology Florida, founded in in its Plant City office, 1998, is one of the located at 1503 W. largest independent Reynolds St. It will take women’s health pracplace on Tuesday, tices in Florida, with February 25 from 5-7 nearly 400 providers p.m. Enjoy hors d’ouvres at more than 100 offices in 13 counties and drinks while meeting the providers throughout the state. Serving more and the staff. than 500,000 patients in Northeast, For more information, call 514Central and Southeast Florida, 4688 or visit Women’s Care Florida’s 400 providers www.academicallderm.com/. deliver more than 20,000 babies each year and provide a wide range of Missy Duncan Completes health services to women of all ages. Certification The group will hold a Grand Missy Duncan with Missy’s Ink Opening Celebration, open to the pub-

SPORTS CONNECTION ....................PG 35 commuterfriendly location that offers a distinguished collection of affordably priced one and twostory floor plans. “Valri KB Home announces grand opening in Park is in an Valri Park. ideal location recently with easy access to major highways Missy Duncan (left) receives and a short commute to area employher certification from instruc- completed tor Teresa Nall. her certifica- ers and downtown Tampa,” said Fred tion to creVandercook, president of KB Home’s ate beautiful 3D areolas and nipples. Tampa division. “As with our other KB This is perfect for a woman who has Home communities, Valri Park offers had a mastectomy or wants to renew home shoppers the opportunity to purthe pigmentation of existing chase a new, personalized KB home areolas/nipples. Replacing areolas/nip- at a price that fits their budget.” KB ples can restore a woman’s selfHome stands out from other homeesteem. Duncan can create the look of builders as the company gives homea three-dimensional nipple on a combuyers exceptional choices and conpletely flat surface. Prices are very low trol. KB Home starts by offering a wide while she’s building clientele for this variety of homes at an affordable service. price. From there, the builder gives Call 659-0648 or visit www.misbuyers the ability to personalize their sysink.com today and restore your homes, from homesites and floor plans confidence. to design features. All homes are built to meet or surpass ENERGY STAR® KB Home Announces Grand Opening certification standards, meaning the Of Latest New Home Community, homes have substantially lower Priced From The $240,000s monthly utility costs when compared to typical used homes. The KB Home KB Home has announced the team works hand in hand with homegrand opening of Valri Park, a new, single-family home community in a Continued on Next Page

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Valrico Edition

Business Column Continued................... owners every step of the way so they have a real partner in the process. The Valri Park community is conveniently located just minutes from I-4, I-75, US60 and US-92, providing an easy commute to area employers in Brandon and downtown Tampa. The community offers seven floor plans with up to six bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and ranging in size from approximately 1,500 to 3,000 square feet. These new homes feature desirable design characteristics like open kitchens overlooking great rooms and expansive master suites with walkin closets. Residents can enjoy outdoor recreation at the nearby Medard Park and a variety of entertainment at MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre and Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Pricing begins in the $240,000s. For more information on KB Home, visit kbhome.com.

Cruise Planners’ Franchise Owner Julie Irovando Named TopPerforming Travel Advisor

By Jenny Bennett

Agent Central’s Top 25 All Stars and Celebrity Cruises’ Sales Associate Travel Partner of the Year. Irovando continues to defy odds both personally and professionally. In 2009, she was diagnosed with what is typically a fatal brain injury; however, that did not slow her down. While facing this new obstacle, she continued to rise to the top by personally achieving more than $4 million in annual sales and earning several Cruise Planners’ Top Producer honors. “Becoming a Cruise Planners travel advisor has been one of the most rewarding decisions I have ever made,” said Irovando. “None of this would have been possible without the support of my business partner Tawnee Sons, our devoted employees and the Cruise Planners’ Home Office Team. Every day we all strive to provide clients with the best deals and a seamless travel experience. The technology Cruise Planners continues to innovate and implement allows us to continue down this path of success.” Travelers should reach out directly to Irovando at 643-2543 or visit www.world2sea.com to customize their next vacation experience.

Julie Irovando from Valrico was once again among the top three producing travel advisors out of more than Havana Creamery And 2,500 agents within Subs Cruise Planners’ homeIn need of a sweet treat based network. or a quick sandwich for lunch Cruise Planners, or dinner? Havana Creamery an American Express and Subs might be just the Travel place for you. It recently opened in January at 859 S. Representative, annually hosts an educaLithia Pinecrest Rd. in the same plaza as the neighbortional and fun-filled convention for more Realtor Karyn Scech from hood Wal-Mart. Along with Yellowfin Realty. than 700 travel advidelicious ice-cream sundaes, sors and hundreds of trade partners. milk shakes and waffle cones, Havana This year, the Mission: PossibleCreamery and Subs serves a variety of themed convention was held at the subs. It is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit Havana Creamery Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood, Florida. and Subs on Facebook to view its menu. For more than 20 years, Irovando has been the go-to travel advisor for Realtor Karyn Scech Presented With those looking to personalize their Finlife Award group, family or leisure trips. Her dediYellowfin Realty awarded the 2019 cation to creating the perfect trip for Finlife Founders Award to Karyn her clients has earned her several Scech for “Diligence personified accolades, including American results in a rich life, including excellent Express Travel’s Excellence in Card sales results, abundant family life and Benefits Fulfillment Award, Travel meaningful community involvement.”

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Volume 17, Issue 2

Dr., Ste. 201 in Lithia. Springstead transferred to FishHawk from an Edward Jones office in Valrico. Springstead said she is enthusiastic about taking over the branch office. “I joined this firm because I was impressed with its commitment to individual investors,” she said. “Now I’m looking forward to meeting with the individuJoanna Springstead, financial advisor with Edward Jones, als here to help them meet celebrated her new office in FishHawk Park Square at 16132 Churchview Dr., Ste. 201 in Lithia with a Valrico their financial goals.” FishHawk Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting. Springstead has 20 years of experience in The Finlife Founders the financial services Award was first presented to industry. Her profesSusie Morris’ (broker) mothsional experience er, who sold real estate for includes executive-level over 30 years in Florida. The positions at JPMorgan award is given each year to Chase and the Federal the agent that truly exempliReserve Bank of fies the true meaning of sellChicago. ing real estate and practices Laura Schumaker, real estate with a wholewho has served as hearted approach. In addibranch office administion, they must volunteer in trator since 2006, said, our community and have the customers’ best interests in Joanna Springstead is the “I am very excited mind. new financial advisor for about working with Scech can be reached at Edward Jones FishHawk Springstead. Together, Ranch branch office. we will provide investors KarynScechHomes.com or with unparalleled personal service.” by calling 376-0269. Springstead and Schumaker can be reached at 657-2078, or visit Joana Springstead Selected As New www.edwardjones.com/joanna-springFinancial Advisor Edward Jones stead. FishHawk Ranch Branch Edward Jones, a Fortune 500 Financial services firm Edward company headquartered in St. Louis, Jones has selected Joanna Missouri, provides financial services in Springstead as the new financial advithe U.S. and, through its affiliate, in sor for the FishHawk Ranch branch Canada. office, located at 16132 Churchview

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Happy ’s Valentine Day

February 2020

Valrico Edition

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Greater Brandon Charity To Hold Its 18th Annual Golf Classic The 18th annual Greater Brandon Charity Golf Classic will be held on Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28, hosted by the Angel Foundation FL. New this year, the Forcon International Casino Night and Pairings Party on March 27 is open to the public and tickets are $50 per person. The event will be held at The Regent in Riverview and tickets include food, drinks and casino-style gaming, as well as the opportunity for players to bid on ‘celebrities’ to play with at the tournament. The Celebrity Pro Am Golf Tournament begins on March 28 at 11 a.m. with a welcome reception and is followed by a shotgun start at 1 p.m. In keeping with tradition, golfers will enjoy competitive challenges, raffles, refreshments at the Bahama Breeze Party Tent and an award ceremony after the tournament. “This is the 18th year the foundation has hosted the Charity Golf Classic, and I'm excited that we are growing every year,” said Liz Brewer, the executive director. “We are thankful to our title sponsors like Forcon International and The Bank of Tampa, who return every year to support this event, as well as new sponsors who have joined us in 2020. Together, we can raise the funds

Volume 17, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

By Bethany Mattacchione

needed to help even more families in 2020.” Proceeds from the event will benefit the Angel Foundation’s Angel Program, which helps families in the Greater Brandon community affected by a life-threatening illness or catastrophic event. When a family faces a terminal diagnosis or catastrophic event, their primary focus is caring for their loved ones. The practical day-to-day things often taken for granted when all is well are no longer a priority, but they still must be done. The Angel Foundation partners with local businesses and individuals in the community to meet those practical needs. Every family goes through a home assessment led by an ‘Angel Team’ to determine their needs. If a financial need exists, the nonprofit will assist them on a temporary basis until they can get back on their feet. Since 2006, the foundation has helped more than 850 families in a variety of ways. For more information about the foundation and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.AngelFoundationFl.com or call 689-6889.

Boards For Bros Looks To The Community For Volunteers To Continue Mission

By Libby Hopkins

In 1978, the Bro Bowl skateboards in the United skatepark opened in downStates, Cuba, Honduras town Tampa. For years, and Bangladesh,” Box skaters would notice that said. “We will continue to the kids who lived in the expand our reach across neighborhood lacked the all states and we hope to equipment they needed to work on a mobile Boards use at the skatepark. This for Bros team that will sometimes resulted in conbring the gift of skatefrontations as the neighboarding to communities borhood residents came to that cannot support a full resent the outsiders comchapter. We want skateing in to use their park. In boarding to spread into an effort to get the local neighborhoods that might Boards for Bros is a local residents skateboarding, not even have a local nonprofit that is some skaters would bring headquartered at Skatepark of skate shop.” along loaner boards for the Tampa and is looking for more The nonprofit purskateboarders from the area local kids to use. sues partnerships to become involved. In 2006, a group of between their local skateboarders decided that they needed Boards for Bros chapters and youth-cento get those kids their own skateboards to tered nonprofits, as well as targeting keep. Using Skatepark of Tampa (SPoT) underserved neighborhoods in the vicinias their home base, they started to collect ties of skateparks. They are looking for gently used skateboard parts and assem- more skateboarders from the area to bling complete skateboards to hand out become involved with Boards for Bros. to the Bro Bowl youth on Christmas. “This “Our volunteers are involved in all phases tradition continued through 2014, when of our projects, from donation, build and Boards for Bros became a 501(c)(3) non- distribution, and are able to directly expeprofit organization fully committed to rience the impact their hard work has on applying our model to neighborhoods their local community,” Box said. “This beyond the Bro Bowl by providing equipengagement often inspires further volunment, safe skate spots and youth mentor- teerism. The magic of the gift of skateing in communities across the United boarding is that it changes the lives of our States,” said Boards for Bros’ Executive volunteers and the youth who could never Director Michelle Box. experience skateboarding without our Boards for Bros’ headquarters is help.” located at SPoT and it has chapters in If you would like to learn more or volSouth Florida, North Carolina, New unteer visit www.boards4bros.org. Jersey, New York, Chicago and Orange Skatepark of Tampa (SPoT) is located at County, California. “We have distributed 4215 E. Columbus Dr. in Tampa.

KB HOME ANNOUNCED THE OPENING OF ITS LATEST NEW-HOME COMMUNITY IN THE TAMPA AREA, VALRI PARK, PRICED FROM THE $250,990s KB Home announced the grand opening of Valri Park, a new single-family home community in a commuter friendly location in Valrico that offers a distinguished collection of affordably priced one- and two-story floor plans. “Valri Park is in an ideal location, with easy access to major highways and a short commute to area employers and downtown Tampa,” said Fred Vandercook, President of KB Home’s Tampa division. “As with our other KB Home communities, Valri Park offers home shoppers the opportunity to purchase a new, personalized KB home at a price that fits their budget.” The Valri Park community is conveniently located just minutes from Interstate 4, Interstate 75, US-60 and US-92, providing an easy commute to area employers in Brandon and downtown Tampa. The community offers seven floor plans with up to six bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths and ranging in size from approximately 1,500 to 3,000 square feet. These new homes feature desirable design characteristics like open kitchens overlooking great rooms and expansive master suites with walk-in closets. Residents can enjoy outdoor recreation at nearby Medard Park and a variety of entertainment at MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre and Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Pricing begins in the $250,990s.

1989 Exterior

“We were looking to buy a new home in the Valrico area, and KB Home’s Valri Park community feels like it will be a perfect fit for my family,” said Kathy R, a Valri Park homebuyer. “We were impressed with the beautiful energy efficient homes and we were excited to learn we can build a new home at a price we can afford.” KB Home stands out from other homebuilders as the company gives homebuyers exceptional choice and control. KB Home starts by offering a wide variety of homes at an affordable price. From there, the builder gives buyers the ability to personalize their homes from homesites and floor plans to design features. All homes built meet or surpass ENERGY STAR® certification standards, meaning the homes have substantially lower monthly utility costs when compared to typical used homes. The KB Home team works hand in hand with homeowners every step of the way so they have a real partner in the process.

1989 Great Room

About KB Home KB Home (NYSE: KBH) is one of the largest and most recognized homebuilders in the United States and has been building quality homes for over 60 years. Today, KB Home operates in 42 markets across eight states, serving a wide array of buyer groups. What sets us apart is giving our customers the ability to personalize their homes from homesites and floor plans to cabinets and countertops, at a price that fits their budget. We are the first builder to make each home we build ENERGY STAR® certified. In fact, every ENERGY STAR-certified KB home is tested and verified to meet the strict standards set by the EPA, which help lower the cost of ownership. We also work with our customers every step of the way, building strong personal relationships so they have a real partner in the homebuying process, and the experience is as simple and easy as possible. Learn more about how we build homes built on relationships by visiting kbhome.com.

February 2020

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Valrico Edition

Boost Confidence With Free Consultation At Redefine Beauty Aesthetics

By Michelle Caceres

Aging is not an easy “She’s very respectful of process to accept. In my discretionary income,” addition to dealing with said Chandler. “She never the aches and pains that tries to oversell me and realcome with an aging ly has my best interest at body, looking in the mirheart.” ror reminds us of the When Chandler’s effects that it has on our friends ask her how she appearance. keeps her youthful appearFortunately, Carolyn ance, she is refreshingly Agnew, ARNP-C, MSN honest with them. “I just at Redefine Beauty tell them the procedures Agnew, ARNP-C, MSN Aesthetics specializes in Carolyn I’ve had done and to go and of Redefine Beauty Aesthetic treatments and anti-aging uses nonsurgical treatments to see Agnew,” she said. help patients. techniques that can take Agnew is humbled when years off your appearance and boost your patients trust her enough to refer their confidence. friends and family to her. Agnew, with more than 12 years in “As women, we are under a lot of aesthetics, offers complimentary consulta- pressure from society to always look tions, taking time to talk with each patient young and refreshed,” she commented. “I about their goals and creating a cuslove using a combination of therapies to tomized nonsurgical treatment plan that keep patients looking fresh but not overwill return the youthful appearance of corrected and more comfortable in their years past. own skin.” Sometimes patients desire outcomes Redefine Beauty Aesthetics offers that can’t be achieved with her services. skin rejuvenation treatments, including “If a patient needs a face-lift to get Botox, dermal fillers, Kybella, chemical the level of correction they want, I will not peels, IPL/photofacial, fractional skin sell them on fillers because they won’t be resurfacing, laser hair removal, tattoo satisfied with the results,” she said. As removal and micro-channeling/micropart of the medical community, Agnew will needling. refer patients to physicians, such as plasIn addition to Agnew, Redefine tic surgeons or dermatologists, to get a Beauty Aesthetic’s staff includes aesthetifull spectrum of care. cian Martha Bugarin. Plant City resident Cheri Chandler Redefine Beauty Aesthetics, located didn’t need a plastic surgeon. A spry 62at 405 S. Kings Ave. in Brandon, is open year-old, Agnew uses a combination of Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. facials, Botox and HIFU (high-intensity For information or to schedule a free focused ultrasound) to keep Chandler consultation, visit www.relooking her best. definebeauty.com or call 820-3138.

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Valrico Edition

Hoover Mr. VanGrade

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over Mr. Chad VanHoon th Teacher Of The M

Celebrate Literacy Week Florida Gets Teachers And Students Involved At Durant High

By Gwen Rollings

in life, whether that involves getting into college or having a successful career.” Maria DeVivo, the meet and greet author, is a language arts and

e a teacher? Why did you decide to becom and I saw how much My parents were both educators ’t go anywhere without they loved their jobs. We couldn t telling them how much some present or former studen my parents meant to them.

cher? What is a goal of yours as a tea . history and to push U.S e lov to ts den I want my stu l thinkers. themselves to be better critica often y Hopefully they learn that histor ther ano repeats itself and we can avoid m our fro rn 9/11 or Pearl Harbor if we lea mistakes. dents What is a hidden talent that stu don’t know about you? have two They probably have no idea I worked masters degrees, lived overseas, and in radio and law enforcement . ely bar k, dun e could onc why? Mr. VanHo over ha What is your favorite book and sb le so I for 15 y een a teacher It would have to be a re-readab ears. a ut will say The Godfather. I read abo e to escape from that book a week so I’m going to hav island like Chuck Noland. saying? What is your favorite quote or cher, coach is one of my favorites. As a tea "Good is the enemy of great" tle for set y stantly preaching this. Wh and father, I feel like I am con good when you can be great? nged in the school system? What would you like to see cha ts. On a disruptive/problematic studen Our district is way too soft on or and avi beh tability for poor student own district level there is less accoun my let do the right thing. I wouldn't it is hurting our students who is t tric dis blematic in class, but our kids ever be disrespectful or pro ruptive h their lack of discipline for dis driving great teachers away wit and disrespectful students.

Volume 17, Issue 2

Maria DeVivo was the guest speaker and introduced her new book at Durant High School.

“Read to SUCCEED! Reach for the Stars! Believe in yourself!” proclaimed Karen Morrissey, reading coach and reading department head at Durant High School in Plant City. The Hillsborough County Reading Teacher of the Year (2017-2018) pulled out all the stops for Durant students and teachers in Celebrate Maria DeVivo, Karen Morrissey and Media Literacy Week Florida, held Specialist Lanie Randall celebrate Literacy throughout Florida during January Week Florida at Durant High School. 27-31. journalism teacher at Randall Middle Her goal was to create a fun-filled School with a successful 20-year week to get students and teachers teaching career. She said, “I’ve involved in celebrating literacy. A always been a writer. Ever since I Hillsborough County Public Library was a little kid, I’ve had this giant prepared a Literacy in the Courtyard imagination that couldn’t be tamed or event where hundreds of books were contained. When I was in the seventh available to browse and take home to grade and read The Outsiders for the keep. Library representatives shared first time, that’s when it clicked, and I all the services public libraries have got it in my head that I wanted to to offer students. The Durant Brew write and publish one day.” She has Crew served up iced coffee. written three books in The Coal Elf The week was jam packed with Chronicles and most recently something different every day, includreleased The Altered. Visit www.mariing a meet and greet/book signing adevivo.com for more information with a local author, prizes for teachers about DeVivo and her books. in the Door Decorating Contest, Morrissey, who has taught at eleselect classes read with Rosie the mentary, middle and high school levTherapy Dog, Get Caught Reading els, shared, “My passion is to have all tickets toward a drawing were given ages connect to literacy in a personal for getting caught reading out loud way that resonates with them and anywhere and other gift card incenchanges them to be more curious and tives emphasizing that reading and inquisitive about the world around writing are rewarding. them and connect with others. I want Was all this coordinated effort high school students to also recogworth it? According to Florida State nize that literacy is a gift, a gift we University College of Education, have all of our lives and a gift to “Reading skills predict success later share with others.”

February 2020

Brandon High’s Class Of 1970 Still Celebrating With Its 50th Year Reunion Dance the night away to the tunes of 60s and 70s music while stepping back into time during Brandon High School’s upcoming 50th Class Reunion at Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa Brandon on Friday, April 24 at 6 p.m. (a cash bar and light appetizers) and Saturday, April 25 at 6 p.m. (cash bar, buffet dinner, music and dancing). The class of 1970 will get an opportunity to reminisce, hear Sounds of Yesterday play, reconnect with friends, eat light appetizers and more. When preparing for this event, the question of who married their high school sweetheart was asked. Several people submitted their responses for a Valentine’s Day tribute. Elaine Nasworthy and her husband, Thumper Nasworthy, got married on July 31, 1971. They met in the seventh grade at Mann Junior High. Both went together off and on until the summer before their junior year at Brandon High School. Thumper ran for senior class president and won. “Thumper always treated me like his partner…Even at 17 years old, a certain amount of popularity went with being with

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Valrico Edition

By Tatiana Ortiz

the class president.” Elaine said. “His leadership quality would be what I recognized then and now,” she added. A total of 507 students graduatGraduating class of ed in the class of 1970. 1970. Brandon High School’s 50th Class Reunion came into fruition through its committee, which kept in touch throughout the years. Judy Gay, who handles the website and public relations on the committee, stated the person who was the driving force behind all of their reunions. “Lisa Rodriguez is our chair and assisted with all the planning, along with the communications of it,” Gay said. For those interested in attending the class reunion, tickets cost $80 per person. This includes admission for both nights. Tickets can be purchased online or by mail until Friday, March 20. More information about it can be found at https://bhsreunion1970.myevent.com/pag e.php?groupingID=online_payment. “Overall, we are excited about our class sweethearts that are still together and celebrating their 50th year wedding anniversaries,” Gay said. For more information, visit https://bhsreunion1970.myevent.com. Embassy Suites by Hilton is located at 10220 Palm River Rd. in Tampa. For more information, contact Gail Askew Sweeting at gailsweeting1970@gmail.com.

Students Of The Year Race Raises Funds For Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

By Kate Quesada

Newsome High year’s Patient Hero is School students Marissa Peddie, who Brady and Ryder was diagnosed with Davis are working leukemia when she was hard this month to 8 years old. raise money for the During the camLeukemia & paign, each dollar is a Lymphoma Society vote and the candidate (LLS). The Valrico team that raises the residents are runmost money at the end ning for the charity’s Brady and Ryder Davis, with Marissa of the seven weeks is coveted Students of Peddie, the Leukemia & Lymphoma named Students of the Society’s (LLS) 2020 Patient Hero, the Year title, which Year. formed Team Wolves and are raising will be given to the “Our mission is to funds with the hope of being named the LLS Students of the Year. team that raises the not only raise the most most money for LLS’s mission before the money but also to bring attention to blood Grand Finale Gala on Saturday, February cancers like leukemia,” added Brady and 29. Ryder. According to LLS Student of the “We want to help raise money to fight Year Campaign Manager Niki Mirandablood cancers because it affects so many Dubay, every three minutes someone is children under the age of 20,” say Brady diagnosed with a blood cancer and, and Ryder, who are 14-year-old twins. unlike other cancer, it is not possible to The twins were nominated to run for screen for or prevent most blood cancers. the honor by Rebecca Arenas, a member Funds raised during the campaign of the LLS Board of Trustees and chair of are used to develop targeted therapies the group’s Young Professional Council, that kill cancer cells selectively, sparing who felt the brothers would make a great the patient’s healthy cells and resulting in team to represent Lithia and Valrico as fewer related side effects. LLS also promost of the other 25 student teams are vides free information and counseling to from the Tampa area, representing high help patients navigate their cancer jourschools including Academy of the Holy ney and supports advocacy for laws to Names, Tampa Prep and Berkley Prep. ensure patients can access the care and They decided to name themselves Team treatments they need. Wolves as a nod to Newsome High All donations to the campaign are are School’s mascot. tax deductible and Brady and Ryder are During the seven-week campaign, also looking for donations for the Grand students raise money through fundraisers Finale Gala’s silent auction. For team info, and donation drives to support a teenage https://events.lls.org/sun/suncoastsoy20/t Patient Hero who is currently battling or is wolves. For information about LLS, in remission from a blood cancer. This please visit www.lls.org.

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Page 32

Volume 17, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

Village Players To Present Neil Simon’s Barefoot In The Park The Village daily ups-andPlayers will open downs. Corie their 2020 season wants Paul to with the Neil become more Simon classic, easy-going: for Barefoot in the example, to run Park on “barefoot in the Valentine’s Day, park.” Friday, February Barefoot in 14. Opening night the Park is directwill be the Village ed by Kyle Tears. Players’ nowHe is a veteran The Village Players will present Neil Simon’s famous Dinner actor with the classic Barefoot in the Park in February. All Theater. Tickets for performances are held at the historic James Village Players McCabe Theater in Valrico. the opening night and is making his Dinner Theater are $35 directorial debut with per person. this production. Tears Other shows will said, “Going into my be presented on Friday, directorial debut, I February 21 and 28 was terrified of and Saturday, February choosing the wrong 15, 22 and 29 at 8 p.m. cast, but after workThere are two matinees on Sunday, ing with them for almost three months, I February 16 and 23 at 3 p.m. would not want anyone else.” Tears Tickets to the shows (other than the added, “Everyone pulls the characters Dinner Theater) are $18 for general right off the pages of the script. I guaradmission and $15 for seniors, students antee that anyone who comes to watch and military with ID. our show will see the amount of dedicaBarefoot in the Park features Corie tion each of them has put into the and Paul Bratter, a newly wed couple. For show.” their first home, they live in an apartment “The play has a ton of funny on the top floor of a brownstone in New moments throughout. I think that if you York City. Corie is optimistic about their are looking for a show to relax after a future together, while Paul, the more anx- long week of working, then our show ious and grounded half of the couple, will help to make your weekend great,” worries about the various flaws in the said Tears. apartment, such as a hole in the skylight, The Village Players perform their their leaky closet and the lack of a bathshows at the historic James McCabe tub. Shortly after moving in, Corie Theater, located at 506 N. 5th St. in attempts to set her mother up with their Valrico. eccentric neighbor, Mr. Velasco. During You can get tickets by visiting the course of four days, the couple learns www.thevillageplayersvalrico.com. For to live together while facing the usual any questions, please call 480-3147.

Have The “Perfect Tea Experience” At Camellia’s Tea Room If you are looking for the “perfect tea experience,” look no further than Camellia’s Tea Room, located at 3102 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Camellia’s Tea Room in in Valrico. Valrico provides exceptionThis delightful al service and the “perfect tea experience.” Make a little tea room reservation and be transoffers up ported to a tranquil place where you can enjoy delisome of the cious foods and superb most delecteas. table food and small batch teas in the area. On a recent visit I met the owner, Debbie Reich, and she served me and my companion, Katie Collins, a full afternoon tea. We started off with a complimentary welcome cocktail. We opted for a mimosa, but Reich offers tea-infused cocktails as well. Reich uses local, fresh ingredients in all of her offerings. This includes Camellia’s Tea Room’s small batch teas. The lunch Reich created and served was delicious. We feasted on a composed salad, tea sandwiches (including Reich’s version of coronation chicken on a croissant) and desserts. The desserts were scones served with the traditional lemon curd and jam, macarons, cookies and strawberries with cream. Reich said, “When you dine with us, you dine with family.” Reich added, “We want you to feel special, have an experience and be pampered.” Some of the recipes that

Reich uses are vintage, and for some she adds her own twist to them. Reich is from Puerto Rico. Her father is Jewish. “We try to bring family into all of our recipes,” Reich said. Most of the items are made in-house by Reich. The macarons, of course, come from France. Not only is the food wonderful, but the rooms are decorated in such a way that you feel that you are taking a walk back in history. Camellia’s Tea Room is housed in a building along with 22 Moons Antiques that Reich has owned and operated for three years. Katie said, “It was a magical meal. I would definitely go again. The ambiance of the whole place transported me to a different place.” Reich creates new menus each week. She is able to accommodate allergies and can make gluten-free items. Just ask what is on the menu for that week when you make your reservation. In addition to full afternoon tea, you can opt for tea and sweets. Reich creates a special menu for events like Valentine’s Day. Reservations are required. You can make them online by visiting www.camelliastearoom.com or by calling 278-5213.

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Page 33

Valrico Edition

Bay Area Renaissance Festival, A Tampa Tradition For Forty-One Years

By Libby Hopkins

As the new Renaissance year begins, so Festival is popular does an old Tampa because it contains tradition. The 41st such a variety that Bay Area can attract people Renaissance of all ages and Festival will begin backgrounds,” on Saturday, Heidger said. “It is February 15 and also an escape for run through many people; they Sunday, March 29. get to come out The festival began and get dressed up The 41st Bay Area Renaissance Festival in 1979 in Largo begins on Saturday, February 15 and runs on and be a different and has since weekends through Sunday, March 29 from person for a day.” 10 a.m.-6 p.m. moved to its locaThere is also a tion in Tampa on the grounds of the large variety of entertainment that hapMuseum of Science and Industry (MOSI). pens daily at the festival which drives its It is open for seven weekends during popularity as well. “There is a variety of February and March and sees more than entertainment at the festival, including 80,000 visitors each season. music, comedy, magicians, aerial acts “The Bay Area Renaissance Festival and, of course, jousting,” she said. “Each is a 16th century village that features 12 weekend brings in new acts as well stages of live entertainment, more than depending on the theme. During Highland 80 various artisans, live armored jousting Fling weekend, the festival will feature and food fit for a king,” said the festival’s Highland Heavy Games like Caber marketing manager, Kim Heidger. Tosses and Stone Throws. During Pirates This year, the festival will bring an all- and Pups weekend, you will find pet resnew experience called the Hawk Walk. cues, demonstrations and even dock div“During the Hawk Walk, patrons will get to ing dogs.” experience the Birds of Prey show in an Heidger hopes the festival will continintimate setting to learn and interact with ue to grow in 2020. “Our hope is to prothe birds,” Heidger said. “The festival will vide a unique and exciting experience to also feature a new escape room, all of our guests as we continue to grow,” Rainbow After Dark Party and Daily she said. Dungeons & Dragons Play.” Visit www.bayarearenfest.com for Heidger and her team believe the info. Festival is located at 11315 N. 46th Bay Area Renaissance Festival is so pop- St. in Tampa and is open every weekend ular with the Tampa community and from February 15 to March 29 from 10 beyond because the festival provides its a.m.-6 p.m. A list of activities and weekguests an escape from the norm. “The end themes is available on the website.

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Page 34

Valrico Edition

Volume 17, Issue 2

Cardinal Roofing Hosts 7th Annual Clay Shoot Fundraiser For Veteran Honor Flights

Fundraiser Hosted By IMPACT Program, Inc. Will Support Healthy Teen Choices Message

Cardinal zations committed to Roofing hosts its honoring veterans seventh annual with all-expenses Clay Shoot paid ‘Honor Tours’ to Fundraiser—Shoot their memorials in For Those Who Washington D.C. Shot For U.S.—on According to the Friday, March 6 Department of from 11:30 a.m.Veterans Affairs, an 2:30 p.m. The comestimated 640 WWII munity is invited to veterans die each participate in a fun day. The time to day of shooting Cardinal Roofing hosts its seventh annual express thanks to Clay Shoot Fundraiser on Friday, March 6 these brave veterans sporting clay and to raise money for Honor Flight of West help raise money to is running out. Central Florida and Flight to Honor. fly veterans to Washington D.C. with “These veterans sacrificed so much Honor Flight of West Central Florida and for our country,” said Wilson. “I love seeFlight to Honor of Polk County. The event ing our community coming together to is taking place at FishHawk Sporting give back to them in this way.” Clays, located at 13505 Hobson This year, Cardinal Roofing has partSimmons Rd. in Lithia. nered with Chick-fil-A in Valrico – Brandon Proceeds from the event benefits South as its founding sponsor. Other Honor Flight of West Central Florida and sponsors for the event include Empire Flight to Honor of Polk County. Bridget Building Supply, Phillips Creative and the Jenkins Wilson, owner of Cardinal Osprey Observer Newspaper. Sponsors Roofing, was inspired to start this are still needed for T-shirts, raffle prizes fundraiser after becoming a guardian for and goody bag items as well as an alcoa veteran during an honor flight in 2013. hol beverage sponsor for after the event. Wilson has made four trips escorting vetShoot for Those Who Shot For U.S. erans to Washington D.C. is currently registering teams and individ“I love everything about this event,” uals for the event. A team of four can regsaid Wilson. “It’s a privilege to be able ister for $500 or individuals can register raise money to gift a war-era veteran a for $150. Trophies will be awarded for day of honor and appreciation for their best male shooter, best female shooter sacrifices. The Clay Shoot Fundraiser has and ‘most likely to improve’ shooter. In raised more than $75,000 over the past addition, there will be a food, raffle prizes seven years. Our goal is to raise more and goody bags. To register, call 689than $10,000 during this year’s clay 7663 or visit www.girlroofer.com. shoot.” For more information about honor Honor Flight of West Central Florida flights, visit www.honorflightwcf.org or and Flight to Honor are nonprofit organiwww.polkveteranscouncil.com.

Have you ever to the messages they wondered how to present. “Very often make a positive when we return to a impact on the lives school for a second of teens? IMPACT session—there are usuProgram, Inc. does ally five sessions in a that in Hillsborough series—students will and some surcome up to us and say, rounding counties ‘I was hoping you by educating, would come equipping, empowback!’ Teens IMPACT’s Fundraising Tea and ering and supportare enthusiasFashion Show at Tin Roof ing students, partic about our Trading Company promises to ents and teachers Teen IMPACT be fun and informative. regarding healthy lifestyles and relationand even volunteer or ships. If you ever wondered how you join our Summer Staff Program.” could support or become involved with The Parent Program affirms that such a life-changing organization, parents can and should be the primary IMPACT invites you on Saturday, educators of their children when it February 29 to come to its fundraising comes to sexuality and character. Tea and Fashion Show at the Tin Roof According to recent polls, teens list their Trading Company in Lithia. The doors parents as their number one role modwill open at 10:30 a.m. At 11 a.m., the els. According to leadership expert event begins with the tea and light lunch, Stephen Covey, “Role modeling is the a guest speaker, a fashion show and a most basic responsibility of parents.” silent auction for a $25 registration fee. According to the American Medical IMPACT Program, Inc.’s vision is to Association, a study of 12,000 adolesserve the community in public and pricents showed that children whose parvate middle and high schools, churches ents held high expectations for them had and community organizations in the area higher school achievement and fewer of sexual risk avoidance. Through its risk-taking behaviors. Parental and other Teen IMPACT, Parent Program and significant adults’ involvement in Classroom Eduation, teens are encourIMPACT is a vital component. aged to say ‘yes’ to healthy relationships Kagey anticipates that the upcoming and a positive future by saying ‘no’ to fundraising Tea and Fashion Show will premarital sex, drugs, tobacco and alconot only be fun and informative but will hol. encourage open dialogue about the Angie Kagey, executive director of messages that positively impact the the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, said future of our youth. Visit www.whatisimthat the students are extremely receptive pact.com or call Kagey at 264-9368.

By Kelly Wise Valdes

By Gwen Rollings

February 2020

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Valrico Edition

Photos courtesy of Matt Hall

Austin Hall Claims Archery Silver Medal In France, Sister Also Wins Titles one of the largest youth teams of The Hall family has hit the competitive archers from Tampa, mark in creating a family tradicalled Thunderstruck Archery. The tion—archery. The family has club is a parent-run team that competed in many national shoots out of Adventures Archery archery tournaments for the past in Tampa. It finances itself through several years. Most recently, fundraisers, concessions and Austin Hall, son of Matt Hall, sponsors to send the kids to competed in his first tournament nationals and other tournaments. outside of the U.S. in Nimes, Matt picked up archery from France, taking home the silver his father, who was an avid hunter. medal in the men’s junior division The Hall family recently started for World Archery. This presticompeting in tournaments. They gious tournament hosts archers compete in 35-60 tournaments a from all over the world. year. “I’ve watched the tournament “Most people look at archery from when I first started archery, Alexis Hall aims her bow for a local as a hunting activity and they don’t so it was really nice to be able to tournament. realize how big the sport is at a go there and place as high as I local tournaments. He likes Austin Hall sizes up his Austin Hall wins a silver school level, or at an Olympic did,” said Austin. targets. medal in his first internationarchery because he enjoys level, or a competitive level,” he al archery tournament. Austin Hall, 17, has been doing she has won countless individual sports more than said. “There are people that are against archery since he was about 7 years old. he does team sports. state and local tournahunting, so they want to shut out The Bell Creek Academy senior has ments. In 2017, she finished first at the “Compared to other competitive archery, but there’s a whole other level won multiple state championships and S3DA National Outdoor Championship, sports, to me, it’s not as stressful. I that people just don’t realize, along with national medals. In 2019, he finished becoming a national champion. In 2019, played football for a few years and you the discipline that you get from doing first at Easton Newberry Spider Cup she won 12 state and local tournakind of have to rely on other people, but the sport.” If you would like to donate to Round 1, first in the NAA Indoor Florida ments. in an individual sport like archery, it all the club, you can message the group Championship and first in the NFAA The siblings, as well as their father, comes down to you,” said Austin. through its Facebook page, Florida Indoor Championship, to name Matt, travel the country to compete in Austin’s sister, Alexis, 12, is also a a few, winning a total of nine state and archery tournaments. Matt also coaches Thunderstruck Archery. very accomplished archer. Since 2017,

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Page 36

Volume 17, Issue 2

Valrico Edition

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